IFPI Launches Global Streaming Integrity Initiative to Fight Streaming Fraud

The global recorded music industry is stepping up its fight against artificial streams and fraudulent music distribution.

The International Federation of the Phonographic Industry, or IFPI, has launched the Streaming Integrity Initiative (SII), a new industry-wide commitment aimed at strengthening the fight against fraudulent streaming activity across the digital music ecosystem.

The initiative is supported by a broad group of companies and organisations including Sony Music Group, Universal Music Group, Warner Music Group, Virgin Music Group, The Orchard, Merlin, IMPALA, CD Baby, FUGA, AWAL, Symphonic and others. 

Five Measures Against Streaming Fraud

Participants are being asked to verify customer identities and rights ownership, inspect submitted content for infringement and fraud, investigate suspicious activity, share relevant fraud intelligence where legally permitted, and continuously improve their anti-fraud systems.

The framework also specifically addresses risks connected to artificial intelligence.

According to IFPI, distributors should use measures capable of identifying AI-generated content and potential abuse involving an artist’s voice, name, image or likeness. Metadata, lyrics, audio recognition and other databases can also form part of the verification process. 

Why Streaming Fraud Matters

Streaming fraud happens when digital plays are artificially generated rather than coming from genuine listeners.

That matters because streaming revenue is distributed within an economic system shared by legitimate artists, songwriters, labels, publishers and other rights holders. Artificial activity can therefore distort data and redirect money away from genuine music consumption.

IFPI sees music distributors as an important point of intervention because they often provide the route through which recordings enter digital streaming services in the first place. 

The initiative also represents a broader shift in the music industry. Instead of relying only on platforms to identify manipulated streams after they occur, the SII is pushing for stronger checks earlier in the distribution process.

Why This Matters for Artists & Labels

FACT: The initiative introduces common expectations around identity verification, ownership checks, content screening, AI-related risks and suspicious streaming activity. Participating companies are also expected to act against repeat offenders. 

DJ-LEAGUE ASSESSMENT: For legitimate independent artists and labels, stronger verification could become increasingly important when releasing and promoting music. Clear ownership, correct metadata, authentic profiles and genuine listener activity are likely to matter even more as distributors and platforms strengthen their screening systems.

The development also supports an important distinction between real promotion and manufactured numbers.

Artists still need visibility, DJs still need new music and labels still need effective distribution. But sustainable promotion depends on reaching real people rather than creating artificial statistics.

For DJ-League, that principle is familiar: Public. Real. Verifiable.