UK homes that use so-called ‘dodgy’ Fire TV Sticks could be putting themselves in danger. That’s the latest warning from FACT, who says those using illicit streaming devices “risk facing serious consequences”. The new alert has been issued after another major crackdown has just taken place across the UK. During a two week period more 30 suppliers of so-called ‘dodgy’ Fire TV Sticks were targeted with all told to stop selling these devices immediately or risk further action.
A 42-year-old man from Newport was also arrested during the raids with TV also products seized – these are now undergoing forensic examination.
Additionally, FACT says it has issued a number of takedown requests to social media platforms and online marketplaces, further disrupting illegal IPTV activity.
For those unaware, ‘dodgy’ Fire Sticks have become an increasingly popular way of watching premium content. Most come pre-loaded with access to illegal movie and sports streams, which can then be watched for a small monthly or yearly fee. It sounds enticing but it comes with some serious warnings.
Although it’s unlikely consumers will ever face prosecution or jail, this way of watching TV can expose homes to nasty malware along with showing unprotected content that could be inappropriate for younger children.
There’s also the danger that users could pay their yearly fee for access only to find the provider is arrested and the streams removed.
Courts are increasingly imposing severe penalties for illegal streaming operations, particularly those who do not heed warnings. Last month, a private prosecution undertaken by the Premier League resulted in Jonathan Edge, a 29-year-old from Liverpool, receiving a three-year and four-month prison sentence for selling and using illicit Firesticks.
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.”
