Film Piracy and Its Connection to Organized Crime and Terrorism

T here is compelling evidence of a broad and continuing connection between fi lm piracy and organized crime. Piracy is high in payoff —with profi t margins greater than those of illegal narcotics—and low in risk, often taking place under the radar of law enforcement. In addition, terrorist groups have in some cases used the proceeds of fi lm piracy to fi nance their activities. Besides being a threat to the global information economy, counterfeiting threatens public safety and national security. Th at is the conclusion of a new RAND report, Film Piracy, Organized Crime, and Terrorism.