Watermark to the aid of piracy prevention

Receiving its public launch at IBC is Network ID from NexGuard, in a technology partnership with Ericsson.

NexGuard’s Network ID inserts what is described as a unique invisible and robust forensic watermark in primary distribution feeds for linear TV. The watermark is designed to provide clear evidence of the distribution path to determine the source of illegally distributed signals (for example, for live sports broadcasts).

This allows content owners to focus their anti-piracy efforts on the sources of significant piracy. The Network ID watermark also serves as proof of ownership to enable the take down of pirated streams (such as from social media).

Network ID has already been integrated with Ericsson’s RX8200 Advanced Modular Receiver for satellite distribution applications.

Harrie Tholen, managing director, NexGuard, said: “Tracing illicit content activity is a necessary and critical first step in fighting today’s greatest piracy challenges, such as the illegal re-distribution of live sports. NexGuard is honoured to be working with Ericsson to provide a solution that is pre-integrated with today’s TV and media industry workflows.

Network ID offers a clear indication of the sources of piracy, so that rights holders can focus their anti-piracy efforts where it matters.”