PREVENTION

There are many ways you can protect our industry from piracy:

Before movies are screened

• Post signs outside and inside the cinema.
  Signs or posters should be prominently displayed outside as well as inside the cinema advising patrons that "Camcorders, audio recorders or any recording devices are not permitted inside the auditorium." Where applicable, the signage can also warn patrons that there may be random bag and jacket checks for these items.
• Contact the local police in advance of a screening to discuss the possibility of assistance.
  Cinema management should be aware of what laws apply to illegal recordings and communicate with local police to determine how they will respond to incidents.

During Screening

• Be extra vigilant during opening day, opening show.
  The earlier it is in the movie release period, the more valuable it is to movie thieves. Be extra vigilant during the opening day or opening weekend. Movie thieves favour cinemas with small crowds. The first and last shows are ideal times for them to attempt to illegally record a movie.
• Look for unusual behavior like coats in hot weather, strangely-arranged clothing or bags.
  Look for unusual behavior like coats in hot weather, strangely-arranged clothing or bags. If someone is wearing a long or unseasonably heavy coat in warm weather, take a closer look. Look for odd shapes outlined in pockets. Ask to look in shopping bags. Jackets and other articles of clothing may also be used to conceal recording devices.
• Monitor the cinema five minutes before screening
  Monitor the cinema five minutes before screening. Movie thieves set up during this time, using clamps on the seat ahead of them or beside them so look for a lot of movement just prior to screening.
• Pay attention to seating arrangements.
  Look for unusual seating arrangements. Movie thieves often prefer to sit at the rear right or left of the auditorium - areas that are usually quiet. They also try to shield themselves by having accomplices sit on either side of them. Pay attention to patrons whose jackets are placed over adjoining seats or the seat in front of someone, or individuals that appear to be together yet saving a seat between them.
• Look out for glowing lights.
  Look out for glowing lights. Often, recording devices cannot fully conceal a glowing light. If someone is seemingly “on their cell phone” throughout the whole first hour of the movie or if you notice a small green or red glow in the dark of the cinema, then take a closer look.
• Pay attention to the use of recording devices such as mp3 players and Assisted Listening Devices.
  Pay attention to the use of recording devices such as mp3 players and Assisted Listening Devices (ALD). The “professional” movie thief may have or borrow an ALD, which can be plugged into the recording device.