French Internet Authority (HADOPI) has issued a new report examining ways to stop usage of streaming and direct download sites.

The report suggests that in order to stop illegal downloading of copyrighted material, blocking web sites or even seizuring domains should be among the available legal options.

HADOPPI says that owners of direct download sites should be able to filter the copyrighted content by implementing content recognition technologies such as digital fingerprinting. These systems could be used to remove content upon the request of copyright holders.

If site operators are unwilling to add these mechanisms, the report suggests steps such as search engine de-listings or involving the courts in order to seize or permanently block the domains.

The report also include measures to target the finances of any sites subject to the copyright alerts. These would include blocking of PayPal accounts, the use of credit cards and advertising, or even legal actions.

France has implemented the so-called "three-strikes" warning system against illegal P2P downloads since 2010.

Earlier this week, a similar "six-strikes? warning system has come into effect in the U.S.

The HADOPI report will be reviewed further before the agency decides on any action.