New dodgy Fire Stick warning issued as more arrests made

So-called ‘dodgy’ Fire Sticks and other modified streaming boxes offer users unauthorised access to premium content from providers such as Sky, Netflix, Disney+, and TNT Sports for free.

They are commonly marketed through websites, social media, messaging apps, and modified devices.

Law enforcement across the UK is cracking down on the use and distribution of these devices, which are considered a “serious crime” under the law.

People who access illegal TV streaming services are potentially liable to prosecution for criminal offences, including under Section 11 of the Fraud Act 2006.

Four arrested for supplying illegal streaming devices

Four men have been arrested in Merseyside following a two-day operation by police targeting the suspected supply of illegal streaming services to thousands of customers.

The arrests followed six search warrants.

On June 25, three men were arrested, including a 47-year-old from Birkenhead and two men, aged 41 and 56, from Prenton.

On June 26, a fourth man, aged 49 and also from Prenton, was arrested after further warrants were executed in Birkenhead and Prenton.

All those arrested are suspected of supplying unauthorised access to TV, films, and live sports to a large customer base.

Investigations manager at the Federation Against Copyright Theft (FACT), Nick Sumner, said: “These arrests demonstrate the value of FACT’s intelligence-led investigations and our close partnership with Merseyside Police.

“This sends a clear message that those involved in supplying illegal streaming services can be identified and held to account.”

The operation stemmed from intelligence-sharing between Merseyside Police and FACT, the UK’s leading anti-piracy body.

Police believe the alleged illegal activities caused harm to legitimate broadcasters, the wider creative sector, and the jobs it supports.

Illegal streaming devices offer users unauthorised access to premium content from providers such as Sky, Disney+, and TNT Sports for free. (Image: Getty Images)

Detective Constable Andrew Gibson, of the Cyber Dependent Crime Unit, said: “This coordinated operation follows detailed investigative work with FACT and has enabled us to take action against six individuals suspected of supplying illegal streaming services on a significant scale.

“Those selling illegal subscriptions should not assume that operating online will protect them from detection.

“We will continue to follow the evidence and pursue those believed to be profiting from this activity.”

The dangers of using illegal streaming devices

“Illegal streaming services are increasingly operated by sophisticated criminal networks, often involved in other types of crime,” BeStreamWise explained.

Meaning those who use illegal streaming devices run the risk of “letting criminals in”, resulting in:

• Viruses and malware
• ID theft, scams, and fraud
• Inappropriate content

Around 39% of illegal streamers in the UK have suffered financial losses due to cybercrime linked to piracy, according to BeStreamWise.

The average amount stolen through illegal streaming is £1,680, while one in ten have lost more than £5,000.

What is the penalty if caught with a ‘dodgy’ Fire TV Stick?

Not only can the use of illegal streaming devices leave users open to ID theft, fraud, and viruses, but it can also result in fines and jail time.

Those caught using or selling a ‘dodgy’ fire stick/box and streaming premium content without paying are in breach of Section 11 of the Fraud Act 2006.

It says a person will be in breach if they obtain services “without any payment having been made for or in respect of them or without payment having been made in full”.

A person found guilty of this kind of offence could be fined or face a jail sentence of up to five years.

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