For some, cable piracy seems like a victimless crime. People try to justify their illegal actions by complaining about the high price of cable television or that service providers are already wealthy and can afford the loss.
In reality, cable piracy is a significant and costly problem that undermines the infrastructure and investment that make high-quality service possible. Both state and federal laws prohibit cable theft and provide service providers with strong legal tools to recover losses and deter future violations.
How the collection process works
Federal law prohibits anyone from receiving cable services without permission from the provider. Once the provider detects unauthorized connections to their service, they have the legal grounds to take further action.
Before doing so, they need to document the violation along with solid evidence, which may include:
- Data showing unauthorized connections
- Physical evidence, such as modified hardware
- Photos or videos capturing the illegal use
- Statements from witnesses or technicians who observed the unlawful use
Once the cable company has the evidence confirming the unauthorized activity, it typically issues a cease-and-desist or demand letter. This letter will notify the individual or business of the violation, demand that they immediately cease the action and offer an opportunity to settle the matter without the need for court action.
If the individual ignores the letter, the cable company can file a civil lawsuit against them. The court may award the cable company damages that range from $250 to $10,000 per violation. Once the court enters a judgment for damages owed, the cable company can begin the collection, which can be done through:
- Wage garnishment
- Bank levies or liens on property
- Payment plans or settlements
By enforcing the laws against piracy, cable companies not only recover their losses but also educate the public. Many people may not realize that purchasing a fully loaded streaming box or accessing an unlicensed IPTV service is against the law. Pursuing legal action can help prevent such incidents in the future. A legal professional can assist cable service providers in collecting the money they’re owed.