Films are released in cinemas before they become available to buy or download. This means any film you see for sale or available for download while it's still on at the cinema is not being sold legally.

If you have a film title on DVD that has not yet been released in the UK, if it is not anywhere in the world in DVD format, or it is currently on in the cinema, then it is more than likely to be a pirate copy. Buying DVDs from a reputable retailer and shunning 'new' DVDs available from online sites are a few ways of avoiding buying a pirated DVD, but there are other ways to ensure you know what you are buying. If you are in any doubt you can contact us at info@copyrightaware.co.uk

If you have a DVD which you suspect of being unauthorised, you can contact FACT on 0845 6034567 or complete the Piracy Report Form on FACT's website.

Downloading illegal content in the home can leave you and your family open to receiving harmful content including unsolicited advertising and pop-ups. The second risk is to your computer which can be damaged by spyware and viruses. In the workplace, illegal downloading and file sharing can have serious repercussions for businesses. Spyware can infiltrate systems and firewalls compromising network security.

The good news is there are many safe, legal ways to download films or TV series. Doing it legally means less risk to you but it also means you are paying a fair price for the content which means the 200,500 people employed in the UK's film and TV industries also get a fair deal for their work.

How and Where to Watch Legally