Pirated DVD Industry Linked to Organized Crime

An article released on May 4th, 2007 claims that the industry of pirating DVD's is a lucrative business whose profits may be funding various organized crime networks and terrorism. Most people consider pirating DVD's as a victimless crime, yet the money they are spending on purchasing these DVD's may be supporting criminal organizations.
"Compared to other forms of crime, DVD piracy offers criminals high returns and relatively low risk in terms of penalties. It is an attractive option for organized crime groups, who use the trade in DVD piracy to launder cash and fund other forms of crime." (PiracyIsACrime.com)
This high return/low risk business is an easy way to launder or gain profit. Yet, even if the suspects are caught the penalties are less severe than in other illegal operations. Which makes the pirated DVD industry an easy money maker for organized crime.
Most people consider purchasing a pirated DVD as a victimless crime. However, most people do not know that the money they are saving buying these DVD's may be contributing to criminal activity in their area.