With the cost of living crisis still hurting pockets, it’s no surprise that millions have switched to illegal streaming. This way of watching sports and movies without paying the usual high subscription fees has boomed in popularity over recent years but that growth hasn’t gone unnoticed by the authorities.
One of the biggest ever crackdowns on this activity has just taken place and it could leave homes that have been enjoying cheap TV left with blank screens.
The major operation – which took place across Europe – targeted those supplying illegal content in countries including the UK, France, Germany, Italy, and Bulgaria.
11 people were arrested during the raid, and a further 102 were placed under police investigation. It’s thought that those behind the streams were raking in more than €250 million (£200 million) each month making this a massive win for content providers who were being short changed.
Along with closing down the illegal movie and top-flight football streams, a swathe of devices were also seized that were providing content to homes.
The special operation was conducted by law enforcement alongside the Audiovisual Anti-Piracy Alliance (AAPA).
Speaking about the shutdown, Mark Mulready, co-president of AAPA said: “The scale of these multi-jurisdictional law enforcement actions highlights the considerable challenge our industry faces when dealing with such sophisticated international pirate networks.
“We are proud to have collaborated with our law enforcement partners to provide technical training and in-field support to assist them in successfully tackling the world ’s largest pirate network.”
And Matt Hibbert, group director of anti-piracy at Sky added: “This sends a strong message that, alongside our partners, we are committed to dismantling pirate networks across borders and holding their ringleaders accountable,” said Matt Hibbert, group director of anti-piracy at Sky.
“We will continue supporting efforts to end digital piracy and protect consumers from the risks of these illegal services.”
It’s worth noting that no consumers were targeted during these raids, but the instant closure of the streams will mean millions who signed up for the illegal content will now be blocked from tuning in.
Along with this crackdown, it’s also been confirmed that a number of people in the UK have just been hit by more warnings.
During a fortnight of raids, more than 30 suppliers of pre-loaded Fire TV Sticks were targeted.
They have all now been told to stop selling these devices with immediate effect or risk further action. That means fewer of these devices will go on sale, and fewer homes will be able to buy them.
Speaking about the new crackdown, Kieron Sharp, CEO FACT said: “Our cease-and-desist measures are not just warnings—they are the first step toward holding offenders accountable. Many who ignored these notices in the past are now facing arrest and criminal charges. We strongly advise anyone involved in these activities to stop immediately.
“If you’re supplying or using illicit streaming devices or illegal IPTV subscriptions, take this as a clear warning: you are breaking the law and risk facing serious consequences.
“We will continue working with police to track down and shut down these illegal operations. The police across the UK have been unstinting in their efforts to tackle this criminality and we are grateful for their assistance.
“To those using illegal streaming services, the message is that you’re not just committing a crime; you are putting yourself at risk. These services often expose users to malware, scams, and data theft, with no recourse when things go wrong. The safest, smartest and only choice is to stick to legitimate providers for your entertainment.”
