The Results Are In And Experts Say We’re Getting Fkd Over By Geoblocking

Ask any Australian that’s into Game of Thrones what they think about geoblocking and you’ll likely get some pretty negative responses. 

Put simply, geoblocking is the act of blocking content based on location. The best example of this is Netflix blocking a good chunk of their content from us because of restrictions imposed by our networks. Foxtel, for instance, have exclusive rights to Game of Thrones, which is probably why you torrent the shit out of it. 
Circumventing this block is pretty simple if you know your way around a VPN, which will allow you to access content that you still legally pay for from providers in other countries. It’s also a legal grey area that’s been on the Federal Government‘s radar for a little while now. 
But the final report released by the Productivity Commission – an independent review and advisory body – says a big fuck you to geoblocking, stating that those working around the blocks are not in breech of the copyright system. 

“The use of ‘geoblocking’ technology is pervasive, and frequently results in Australian consumers being offered a lower level of digital service [such as a more limited music or TV streaming catalogue] at a higher price than in overseas markets,” says the report. 
“Studies show Australian consumers systematically pay higher prices for professional software, music, games and ebooks than consumers in comparable overseas markets. 

“While some digital-savvy consumers are able to avoid these costs [through the use of proxy servers and Virtual Private Networks], most pay inflated prices for lower-standard services and some will ultimately infringe.”


At this stages, it’s unclear if any changes will be made, with many media outlets taking a firm stance in the defence of the blocks. But for now, you’re free to dwell in the legal limbo at your own risk. Enjoy!

Source: ABC.

Photo: Game of Throne.

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