Nature of assignment
Sony Computer Entertainment Australia Pty Limited believed that it was losing significant revenue to pirates and counterfeiters, who were distributing their PlayStation® product via classified advertisements, online and in suburban markets. The company estimated that it was losing 10% of its revenue in this way and that piracy accounted for 100% of units for PlayStation® software in Australia (that is, for every legitimate PlayStation® game, there is a pirated one).
Our role
We were approached by the company to co-ordinate an anti-piracy investigation program on its behalf. Teams were brought together around Australia and a network of undercover and surveillance operatives were used.
Outcome
During the five year life of the campaign, we have investigated more than 3,500 piracy cases, resulting in civil actions being carried out against organised pirates and settlement awards for our client exceeding $500,000. In some cases, matters have been reported to law enforcement authorities, resulting in criminal prosecutions and convictions. Through our close liaison with the Australian Customs Service, more than 60,000 counterfeit Sony PlayStation® compact discs have been seized since 1998.
