BBC

[SOLVED] BBC iPlayer only works in the UK. Sorry, it's due to rights issues

Luke Riley

Nov 21, 2024 • 2 min read

You must have a legal right to access content in the UK, learn more here

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Two Click Install to starting accessing UK content abroad.

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Are you getting the following message when trying to access BBC iPlayer when located outside the UK:

"BBC iPlayer only works in the UK. Sorry, it's due to rights issues"

We run through the main reasons why you're getting the error message. And if you use a VPN while trying to stream BBC iPlayer, we walk through why you should consider using Beebs as a better alternative.

Reasons for the Error Message

The BBCs internal IP lookup system will return this error, if you're failing to pass one of its checks:

You are physically outside the UK
You are using a VPN, even if you are in the UK.
Your VPN has been detected by the BBC, this error means your provider is failing to bypass the servers. In this case you need to switch provider.

How to Best Fix the Error Message:

The BBC blocks connections from detecting BBC VPNs, which can cause streaming issues.To fix the problem, follow the option that applies.

Beebs will automatically refresh your browser & reroute your connection to the UK, allowing you full access to BBC iPlayer from overseas at all times.

Why does the BBC block users from overseas?

As the title of this article suggests, the BBC iPlayer service is only available to those living inside the United Kingdom. Even British citizens who are away on a holiday or living overseas are blocked from accessing their favourite TV shows.

The BBC engages in very strict geo-blocking. Anybody who attempts to watch BBC iPlayer on-demand from abroad will be denied access. The BBC runs a check against your IP (internet address) and determines where you are in the world. If it finds out you are not in the UK, you will get the error:

It does seem rather strange that a public, not-for-profit broadcaster denies a global audience from accessing its content. The main reason the BBC geo-blocks the BBC iPlayer service is due to international rights issues. You see, the BBC sells their English TV shows around the world to different streaming services and TV channels.

So if BBC iPlayer was accessible for free worldwide, then the BBC would obviously be unable sell their content for very much. This same logic applies in reverse since the BBC purchases other TV shows and movies to run on their stations locally in the UK. This means they need to ensure that those selling their rights are protected from lower returns.

You must have a legal right to access content in the UK, learn more here

Start using the Best British VPN

Two Click Install to starting accessing UK content abroad.

Install BritVPN