HACKING THE SYSTEM: SECURITY AND PRIVACY IN THE M & E INDUSTRY

The media and entertainment industry faces increasing cybersecurity threats due to its valuable data and content, with regulations like GDPR and CCPA heightening importance. The Digital Personal Data Protection Act, 2022 in India further emphasizes data protection, requiring companies to prioritize consent, legitimate uses, and establish regulatory structures for data privacy.

- SWAPNIL RAJE

The media and entertainment industry has seen a significant increase in the importance of security with the growing global consumption of media and entertainment content. The industry is a goldmine of data and intellectual property that can be monetized, making it a target for cyber attacks.

Fighting piracy and ensuring secure and flexible delivery options for subscribers are key motivators for the media industry to apply state-of-the-art cyber and hardware security. This is particularly relevant when it comes to streaming and on-demand media.

Moreover, regulations like the EU's General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) and the California Consumer Privacy Act (CCPA) are especially important for media and entertainment companies.

THREATS TO SECURITY AND PRIVACY

The media and entertainment industry is increasingly becoming a target for a variety of cyber security threats. These threats range from the exposure of sensitive content and cyber attack chatter to impersonations, account takeovers, and the distribution of pirated content and counterfeit goods. Each of these threats poses a unique challenge to the industry, requiring tailored solutions and constant vigilance.

Sensitive content, such as unreleased films or confidential business information, can be a prime target for cybercriminals. The unauthorized release of such content can lead to significant financial losses and damage to a company's reputation. Similarly, cyber attack chatter, which refers to online discussions about potential attacks, can serve as an early warning sign of an impending threat.

Impersonations and account takeovers represent another significant threat. Cybercriminals often use these tactics to gain unauthorized access to a company's digital assets or to spread misinformation. This can lead to a loss of trust among consumers and potential legal issues.