As we fast approach the end of the year, the FMTS team have been looking back at a busy and exciting year in the world of content security. From blocking dominating the headlines to another busy IBC show, a lot has happened in 12 months! Here is a quick round-up of the highlights of the last year, in case you missed them.
Blocking in the headlines
While blocking has been an established enforcement mechanism for years now, 2024 has seen it dominate the headlines like never before. Piracy Shield has sparked controversy over its tendency to overblock, underscoring the critical need to collaborate with experienced blocking providers who possess specialised expertise. This highlights the complexity of implementing precise, targeted blocking measures—an approach that is challenging yet entirely achievable.
The FMTS team joined forces with Canadian video service providers to implement dynamic blocking of servers hosting pirated broadcasters’ content. This included safeguarding high-profile sports events from major leagues like FIFA, NBA, NHL and UFC. This news was off the back of a cybersecurity award, recognising FMTS’s blocking services’ innovation and excellence in information security.
You can learn more about our blocking services here.
New and continued partnerships
This year, the FMTS team have also celebrated both new and renewed partnerships with giants in the media and entertainment world. In August, we announced our partnership with ITV, as we began providing the UK’s largest commercial broadcaster with 24×7 Global Monitoring service to protect their main linear channels across broadcast and streaming platforms.
In October, we also announced our continued partnership with UEFA, as the governing body of European football extended its commitment to Friend MTS’s anti-piracy technologies and services in respect of all major UEFA club and national team competitions, including the UEFA Champions League, UEFA Women's Champions League and UEFA Nations League.
Throughout 2024, Friend MTS played a crucial part in safeguarding live sports events, ensuring the protection of some of the year's most-watched games and matches. With sports dominating the streaming landscape, our latest blog dives into the critical impact we’ve made during this action-packed summer of sports.
We’ve also played a pivotal role in dismantling the world’s largest transnational criminal organisation. We worked with AAPA, the Catania Public Prosecutor’s Office, the Croatian State Attorney Office for Suppression of Corruption and Organised Crime and law enforcement agencies in Italy, Switzerland, Sweden, Croatia and England in their coordinated operation to stop an organisation alleged to be serving pirated audiovisual content and generating over 250 million euros in illegal revenue per month.
Content security highlighted all over the world
This year marked a return to a packed global event calendar, with key discussions focused on the growing need for robust content security. As always, IBC dominated calendars with a successful show that drew in over 44,000 people this year. For FMTS, it was a fantastic opportunity to reconnect with industry peers and partners, exchanging ideas on innovative content protection strategies to tackle piracy and reclaim lost revenue.
While at IBC, Robin Boldon, our Head of Product, caught up with IABM TV to discuss protecting content from illegal redistribution. He explored how content owners, rights holders, and broadcasters can safeguard their assets and combat piracy effectively. You can catch this quick interview to find out more.
Throughout the year, our team also attended key events like APOS, AVIA, and CDSA, connecting with industry leaders and driving conversations about content security. If we missed you at these events, don't worry; you can reach out today to book a meeting and explore how we can support your goals.
Continued expansion for FMTS
Our team continues to expand as we evolve into a more agile and dynamic business. Key appointments this year include Jill Ezard as Chief People Officer and Simon Thornberry as Chief Operating Officer, reflecting our ongoing investment in expertise and growth.
This transformation also brought a fresh new look! With the launch of our rebrand and sleek new website, we’ve embraced a bold, modern identity that highlights our focus on technology, data, and innovation.
Heading into 2025
As we step into 2025, we're excited to build on this year’s momentum, embracing new opportunities and challenges with determination and innovation. You can view what Chris White, Chief Architect at FMTS, predicts for content security next year here.
Together, let’s continue driving success and making life harder for pirates and others who undermine the value of creativity and content, protecting the integrity of our industry. Here’s to a transformative year ahead!
