Customs officers will enhance enforcement against all forms of piracy during the World Cup, and maintain close surveillance of the Internet. The Customs & Excise Department today warned that distribution of subscription television programmes or any copyright work via the Internet without a licence is a crime.

If Customs officers come across any intellectual property infringement offence, they will take appropriate action. Downloading from the Internet any copyright work, including subscription television programmes, without a licence, is also an offence.

Noting media reports that live World Cup broadcasts by subscription television might be available for free viewing on the Internet by using certain software, the department appealed to the public not to engage in such activities. Both commercial and domestic users of illicit decoders will be subject to court action. Officers will tighten inspection to seize illegal decoders imported into Hong Kong at all boundary control points.

The public is encouraged to report any suspected piracy on 2545 6182.