Brazil launches huge operation against streaming fraud company ‘JustAnotherPanel’
Brazilian authorities have launched “largest-ever” operation to disrupt fraud streaming.
JustAnotherPanel is the target of a major Brazilian disruption operation that aims to stamp out large-scale fraud streaming. The global service provides technical infrastructure to sites that offer fake streams on digital streaming platforms like Spotify, as well as inauthentic interaction behaviours like fake likes and followers, according to the IFPI.
The cybercrime unit of prosecutor’s office of Sao Paulo, Cyber Gaeco has launched this operation, with support from IFPI and Pro-Música Brasil. A court order has been obtained requring JustAnotherPlatform to be blocked across Brazil. This order is currently being put in place, with at least 43 illegal local services were disrupted and over 1,131 foreign re-sellers impacted.
This comes less than a month after operation Out of Tune, which saw Brazilian authorities take down an individual resposnible for more tha 28 million fake streams worth over $65k.
Why is fraud streaming such an issue? Fraud streaming steals revenue out of the pockets of genuine artists, with the amount potentially shocking those unfamilair with the topic. Beatdapp Software reported that approximately a staggering $2 billion in revenue is lost to fraud streaming per year.
A statement given by IFPI explains that, “By delivering fake music streams, JustAnotherPanel misled fans and ultimately diverted revenue away from artists and music creators.” It goes on to point out that this type of activity has been deemed a criminal offence, with offences including breaching of consumer protection laws.
IFPI CEO, Victoria Oakley spoke on the situation: “Fake streams aren’t just a numbers game – they harm artists and erode trust in our system.” She also explained that, “This is the single largest action yet and will have a massive impact on the streaming fraud landscape.”
Fraud streaming and streaming manipulation is a major concern in the digital music landscape, and one that industry bodies are paying close attention to.
Paula Rosa, President of Pro-Música Brasil, commented on the JustAnotherPlatform operation, saying: “Stream manipulation is one of the biggest concerns of the music sector these days. We applaud the Public Attorney’s Office of the state of Sao Paulo for this successful operation and will continue to work closely with Brazilian authorities to tackle these fraudulent practices and protect music consumers”.