Illegally stream films for free? You could be gifted a free TV box if you agree to stop

We’ve seen a number of tactics designed to stop people from streaming Hollywood blockbusters and boxsets of television shows for free, including emails sent out to those caught streaming illegally by their internet provider and widespread blocks to stop anyone visiting illicit streaming sites. But a new campaign in Singapore is easily one of the most unique approaches to privacy presentation that we’ve ever come across.

Owners of set-top boxes configured to stream copyrighted material for free can hand over the devices to telecom firm StarHub for destruction. In return, the pirates will receive a brand-new streaming device with support for Ultra HD 4K. Best of all? They won’t have to spend a penny to get the replacement set-top box.

As you might expect when the word “free” is involved, there are some strings attached.

To be eligible for the free Ultra HD set-top box, you’ll not only need to hand over an illicit streaming device but also agree to sign-up for two-years of the StarHub TV+ service. As well as a number of channels and films, this bundle also includes a subscription to Disney+, unlocking original series like Loki, WandaVision, and The Mandalorian. Disney+ also hosts every single episode of The Simpsons, animated classics from Walt Disney Studios, and all of the entries in the Star Wars saga and Marvel Cinematic Universe.

“StarHub is delighted to be able to support the creation of original content, uphold intellectual property rights, and make a stand against piracy by offering customers the best value yet, on our StarHub TV+ service,” said Johan Buse, Chief, Consumer Business Group, StarHub. “There is no better time than now to cast away outmoded illegal boxes, support original, and give StarHub TV+ a go.”

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It’s worth noting that people who turn in their pirate boxes and subscribe to the recommended packages aren’t getting a bespoke deal. The prices they’ll pay each month are exactly the same as those offered to regular new customers – who don’t have to sacrifice a set-top box – which also includes Disney+ for free until February 2023.

Of course, watching your favourite films and television boxsets on legal services, like StarHub TV+, Disney+, Netflix, Prime Video, Sky Q or BBC iPlayer, supports the team and companies behind the production.