Italy’s communications authority, AGCOM, has fined Cloudflare €14.2 million for its refusal to block pirate websites using its public DNS service, 1.1.1.1. This enforcement is a part of Italy’s controversial Piracy Shield law implemented in 2024, which mandates network operators and DNS services to block access to websites and IP addresses reported by copyright holders within a short timeframe.
Cloudflare has responded by arguing that complying with such mandates is technically unreasonable and could degrade DNS performance on a global scale. The company’s CEO, Matthew Prince, criticized the law as a form of censorship lacking due process and has stated their intention to appeal the fine.
In light of this situation, Cloudflare is contemplating withdrawing its servers from Italy entirely. This withdrawal could impact various projects in the country, including pro bono security services for high-profile events like the 2026 Milan-Cortina Olympics, and could halt their investments within Italy as well.
For more details, you can read the full story on Ars Technica.
