JioStar probe leads to arrest of individual in ZeeFlix piracy case; over 1,000 TV channels allegedly distributed illegally

An investigation initiated by JioStar has led to the arrest of an individual allegedly involved in operating the ZeeFlix Android application, which investigators found was providing unauthorised access to JioStar’s copyrighted content.

The Indore Crime Branch registered an FIR on August 19 following an investigation and evidence submitted by JioStar. The case has been filed under Sections 51 and 63 of the Copyright Act, 1957, Section 318(4) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023, and Sections 43 and 66D of the Information Technology Act, 2000.

According to the investigation, ZeeFlix was allegedly offering subscription-based access to a large catalogue of unauthorised content, including more than 1,000 television channels and over 50 sports channels, using broadcaster logos.


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As part of the investigation, JioStar representatives purchased two subscriptions priced at ₹149 and ₹799. The subscriptions allegedly provided access to premium JioStar content and live sports broadcasts.

The platform had recorded more than 35,000 downloads and approximately 20,000 active subscribers, according to the investigation. The operation was estimated to have generated around ₹20 lakh through subscriptions and other commercial activities.

Investigators also identified other digital properties and applications allegedly linked to the operation, including HotWebSeries.

On August 20, the Crime Branch Special Investigation Team conducted a raid at premises associated with the accused and seized three mobile phones, a laptop, a hard disk, a digital camera and two tripods for further examination.

The accused was subsequently arrested and produced before the appropriate court for remand.

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Further investigation is underway, including forensic examination of the seized devices and verification of financial and technical evidence.

The action comes as JioStar steps up efforts to protect its intellectual property and premium content from digital piracy through investigations and collaboration with law enforcement agencies.