UK collection society PPL is under police investigation for suspected embezzlement following the discovery of suspicious activity on multiple member accounts. The organization has already dismissed one employee following an internal investigation earlier this year.

The fraud scheme reportedly involved individuals posing as unregistered recording artists to fraudulently claim royalties. The deception was uncovered when legitimate artists attempted to register as PPL members. Industry sources indicate the fraud may have occurred between 2016-2023, with fraudulent transactions estimated at £500,000 ($625,000).

PPL, the second-largest collecting society in the UK, manages music licensing for labels and artists, working with broadcasters, venues, and businesses. The organization maintains over 110 international agreements with collection management organizations, including SoundExchange and AARC in the United States.

Despite the ongoing investigation, PPL reported strong financial performance, collecting £285 million ($356 million) in 2023—their highest annual total. However, their latest quarterly distribution showed a slight decline to £45.3 million ($57.5 million) compared to the previous year.

The organization has declined to comment further while The Metropolitan Police conducts its criminal investigation. PPL has stated they are working directly with affected members to rectify their accounts.

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