IFPI Launches Initiative to Combat Streaming Fraud, Backed by 20+ Music Companies

IFPI has announced the launch of the Streaming Integrity Initiative (SII), a new industry commitment aimed at combating streaming fraud and protecting artists, songwriters and the wider music economy from the harm it causes.

Why it matters:

• SII establishes a baseline set of practices for music distribution services to prevent, detect, and respond to streaming fraud.

• As AI-powered tools become more widely available, IFPI says stronger fraud protection, detection, and coordinated action are more important than ever.

The key commitments:

• Participating distributors commit to:

• 1. Verify rights ownership and customer identities through robust rights verification and Know Your Customer (KYC) processes.

• 2. Vet content using effective tools and processes to identify infringement, fraudulent activity and AI-related risks.

• 3. Act by detecting, investigating and mitigating suspected fraud, including acting against repeat offenders.

• 4. Share intelligence, where legally permissible, to help prevent bad actors from moving across services and platforms.

• 5. Measure and continuously strengthen anti-fraud systems to address evolving threats.

The supporters:

• The initiative is backed by more than 20 music companies, including: Absolute Label Services, ADA, AWAL, CD Baby, CmdShft, Ditto Music, FUGA, GoDigital, HYBE, IDOL, IMPALA, InnerCat Music Group, Merlin, Redeye, Revelator, RouteNote, Secretly Distribution, Symphonic, Sony Music Group, The Orchard, Too Lost, Universal Music Group, Virgin Music Group and Warner Music Group.

• IFPI is calling on distributors, digital service providers, industry bodies and other stakeholders to support the initiative.

What they said:

• Victoria Oakley, CEO, IFPI: “Streaming fraud misleads fans and deprives legitimate artists and songwriters of income that should rightfully flow to them. This is theft, plain and simple. We welcome the leadership shown by the first distributors to publicly support the Streaming Integrity Initiative, and hope this leads to direct, effective and coordinated action to protect artists, songwriters and fans from streaming fraud.”