LaLiga's massive IP blocks will go further: now they will require VPN providers to also block IPs

LaLiga is escalating its fight against unauthorized streaming of its football matches, securing court orders that mandate major VPN providers like NordVPN and ProtonVPN to block access from Spain to specific IP addresses identified as broadcasting illegal content. This unprecedented move, obtained "inaudita parte" (without hearing the defense), signifies a significant expansion of enforcement beyond mere ISP blocking. The court's ruling positions VPN providers as intermediaries subject to European digital services regulations, obligating them to prevent infringements on their infrastructure. The judicial decision recognizes that VPN services are technologically capable of geolocking content and therefore must actively participate in preventing illegal audiovisual distribution. This places a substantial new burden on VPN operators, requiring dynamic IP blocking capabilities to comply with such orders. Such measures could have far-reaching implications for user privacy and the broader accessibility of the internet, raising questions about the balance between copyright protection and digital freedom. This development directly impacts users in Spain who rely on VPNs for various reasons, potentially limiting their access to global content and services. Furthermore, it sets a precedent for other copyright holders and regulatory bodies in Europe seeking to control online content distribution, potentially leading to a more fragmented and controlled digital landscape across the continent. The legal strategy adopted by LaLiga suggests a new frontier in the battle for digital content control.