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deepika sampath
deepika sampath

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Why DRM is Essential for Protecting Video Content on VOD Platforms

Video on demand has been experiencing remarkable growth in recent years, as content creators and distributors are moving to digital platforms. The threat of unauthorized distribution, piracy and intellectual property theft occurs due to the demand for high-quality and exclusive content increases.
To safeguard their valuable assets, VOD platform has to implement the Digital Rights Management(DRM) technology.

Preventing Unauthorized Access and Piracy:

One of the biggest risks of video content on VOD platforms is piracy.
Without adequate protection, content can be easily downloaded, shared or even streamed illegally, which results in losses for the content creator or the distributors.
With the help of DRM technology the content creators can keep their video secured.

Protecting revenue streams:

VOD platforms often depend on various monetization models such as pay-per-view, subscriptions and ad-supported models. DRM plays an important role in protecting these revenue streams by enforcing user restriction based on license agreement.
DRM allows content creators to control how and when their content is viewed. It can also help enforce pay-per-view to assess that the content is available only in the specified period.

Enabling Global Distribution with Regional Restrictions:

DRM allows distributors to distribute the content globally based on the licensing agreements enforced by different regions.
Each region may have its own licensing agreements, DRM facilitates the enforcement of these restrictions without the concern of creating agreements for each separate area.
For example; if a film might have distribution rights in the U.S but not in Europe.
With the help of DRM, the platform can limit access to certain geographical locations, which ensures that the content is available only within the licensed area.

Securing Premium and Exclusive Content:

Exclusive and premium content is often the most valuable asset on a VOD platform. From original productions to high-profile movie releases, protecting such content is vital for the success of the platform.
DRM helps to prevent leaks and illegal distribution, which can reduce the value of exclusive content.
For streaming services like Netflix, Hulu or Amazon Prime, exclusive content is frequently a major selling point, So DRM ensures that their investment in original shows and movies is safeguarded.

Ensuring User Privacy and Compliance with Regulations:

In today’s digital landscape, data privacy and security are important. Many countries have implemented regulations related to user data, such as the General Data Protection Regulation(GDPR) in Europe, and all the streaming platforms have to comply with it.
With the help of DRM, the platforms can manage who accesses the content and ensures that the user’s personal information is encrypted and secured.

Enhancing User Experience with Seamless Access Control:

While DRM is important for protecting content from piracy, it also contributes to a smooth and controlled user experience. Modern DRM systems are designed to integrate effortlessly into VOD platforms, enabling viewers to access content across various devices such as smartphones, tablets, smart TVs, and laptops without any interruptions.
With user authentication features like secure login, DRM ensures a seamless viewing experience while maintaining security.

Protecting Content from Alteration or Tampering:

Digital content is vulnerable to tampering, editing, and piracy. For this reason, DRM is useful not only in preventing unauthorized copying but also ensures that the content remains unaltered and in its original form. For example, the value of high-value platforms requires such protection where even slight alterations or leaks could lead to damage.

Conclusion:

In an era where digital content is increasingly vulnerable to piracy, theft, and unauthorized access, DRM technology is no longer optional for VOD platforms but it is essential.
DRM helps protect content from piracy, secure revenue streams, ensure compliance with legal requirements, and safeguard premium content.
As the streaming industry continues to grow, the importance of DRM will only increase, helping platforms maintain control over their intellectual property and providing viewers with a secure, seamless viewing experience.

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