The Czech company Warezio has launched a new platform called “Online Hunter” where internet users can become “pirate hunters”.
Reports from Internet users
Following the recent closure of HiAnime, the ecosystem of illegal streaming services appears to be on the verge of change – especially with a new initiative that aims to involve the public directly in tracking down similar networks and reward them for doing so.
We’re talking about “Online Hunter”, a new platform on which illegally uploaded films, series or live events can be reported on various social networks such as X, Discord, Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, YouTube and Telegram.
The main aim is to uncover those piracy groups that are active via messenger services such as Discord and have so far been difficult to locate because many of these communities are privately organized and limited to small groups of users.
Pirate hunters have a reward
Of course, this crowdsourcing approach also offers a potential new opportunity for Japanese anime and manga rights holders who are continually looking for effective methods to combat piracy. After all, shortly after HiAnime was shut down, it was said that new websites would soon be opened – which means the game begins again.
For this reason, rights holders could undoubtedly see an advantage in winning over the public. “Online Hunter” currently operates primarily in Eastern and Central Europe, although expansion into Western Europe is planned soon. In addition, the pirate hunt should also be worthwhile for the hard-working users.
For every piracy link you submit, you receive a certain number of points that you can use to purchase vouchers for online streaming services such as Netflix, HBO Max and Oktagon MMA. While newly discovered platforms are particularly worthwhile, content that has already been reported earns fewer points.
This model not only promotes official sources of supply, but also increases the chances of uncovering previously unknown, closed piracy networks. However, it remains to be seen whether it will also be well received by users.
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Via Online Hunter
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