'This cannot be tolerated'
Police have issued a new warning for people using Amazon Fire Sticks to illegally live stream sporting events following an arrest.
Illegal streaming of content from subscription platforms such as Netflix, Amazon Prime, Disney+ and Sky Sports has become a common practice for those looking to avoid each platform's fees.
A 2022 survey confirmed that 19% of respondents had illegally streamed or downloaded content in the past three months, although this could result in jail time.
But in recent months there has been a concerted effort to crack down on the practice, with police issuing new warnings after interviewing 11 people in a nationwide investigation into illegal streaming services.
The Metropolitan Police's Intellectual Property Crime Unit (PIPCU) has launched a week-long operation across the country to crack down on the supply of illegal streaming services, focusing on the sale of personal devices or sticks that are “modded” with fully loaded smart TVs.
Police conducted the operation in conjunction with FACT and the Premier League and interviewed individuals from Portsmouth, Wales, Hartlepool, Middlesbrough, Leeds, Manchester and Bury.
One of those brought in for questioning was arrested and 10 others are being questioned under caution.
Detective Chief Inspector Emma Warbey, of PIPU, said: “Illegal streaming is a huge issue in the industry and although it may seem like a low-risk, high-reward crime, the proceeds are used to finance other serious forms of criminal activity.” At the same time, it can expose end users to the risk of data theft, fraud, and malware.
“By targeting grassroots sellers, we are sending a clear message: this behavior will not be tolerated. PIPCU will continue to work with law enforcement and industry partners to take action against those offering illegal streaming services and protect consumers protect users from the risks associated with using these services.”
Kieron Sharp, Chief Executive of FACT, said: “The success of this targeted operation is directly down to the outstanding efforts and strong support of PIPCU. By implementing these measures, a strong message is sent out: piracy is a crime and must be be dealt with seriously.
“We remain vigilant against monitoring platforms, including modified firesticks that promote and distribute illegal streams, and take decisive action against those illegally selling premium television content. FACT and its partners are determined to disrupt these criminal activities and failure to comply will leading to further enforcement action.”
In May last year, five men who illegally broadcast Premier League football matches to tens of thousands of people were sentenced to a total of 30 years and seven months in prison.
The gang, aged between 30 and 46, sold TV sticks to customers so they could watch matches that the BBC was unable to show live due to a 3pm blackout.
Their business has been described as their largest to date, generating over £7 million in revenue from 50,000 subscribers
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