The Premier League has signed a new partnership with media protection specialists Irdeto, as it continues efforts to protect its intellectual property, reports, www.sportspromedia.com/. The company will assist the Premier League in investigating the supply of set-top boxes which allow illegal streams to be broadcast in the UK and abroad.
The Premier League intends to collect evidence required to pursue legal action against suppliers and forge closer relationships with law enforcement organisations 'to pursue actions against the highly organised criminal networks that are involved in the distribution of these illegal services'.
"The Premier League has long been at the cutting edge of anti-piracy operations, and our new relationship will strengthen this further," said Graham Kill, the chief executive of Irdeto.
"The aim of our work together is to ensure that legal access to the Premier League remains the best way for consumers to enjoy the finest football in the world."
Richard Scudamore, the chief executive of the Premier League, added: "It is only through legitimate investment in our broadcasting rights that we can put on a high quality football competition, and support and invest in all levels of English football and beyond.
"Piracy threatens that model and we are confident that our partnership with Irdeto - who have a proven track record in this area - will allow us to evolve and improve the way we guard against that threat for years to come."
