The Dangers of Using Dodgy Streaming Devices
But owning or streaming pirated content can lead to serious legal consequences – as well as hidden dangers to your privacy and finances that come with using these illicit devices.
So, what are the possible punishments or cyber threats that come with owning a dodgy stick?
Dodgy firesticks could put you at risk of cyber crime (Alamy/PA)
(Alamy/PA)
Understanding the Risks
While owning a modified or “jailbroken” stick is not illegal in itself, using one to access unauthorised, copyrighted content without paying is against the law in the UK.
“Jailbreaking” is a process that involves modifying the Firestick to download apps not available on the appstore, which then enables installations from unknown sources.
This allows users to access unauthorised content without paying any subscription fees.
Potential Punishments
Should users be caught, they risk severe financial penalties, or criminal charges that could lead to a prison sentence.
Individuals caught illegally streaming could face substantial fines, potentially reaching thousands of pounds.
Dodgy firesticks are illegal
(Alamy/PA)
Plus, if you use an illegal streaming device to watch live TV without a valid TV licence, you risk an additional fine of up to £1,000.
Additionally, copyright holders such as Sky or even the Premier League can pursue civil legal action to recover lost revenue.
Considered an offence of “obtaining services dishonestly” under the Fraud Act 2006, a summary conviction could also result in up to 12 months in prison.
In practice, however, police tend not to target users of the devices, but target sellers.
For more serious offences, such as supplying or distributing devices on a commercial scale, the result could be up to five years in prison.
Sunny Kanda, from Halifax, and Jonathan Edge, from Liverpool, were jailed for two and three years respectively for selling Firestick devices that allowed users to illegally stream Premier League football matches.
Police forces, along with anti-piracy body Federation Against Copyright Theft (FACT), have used a number of “enforcement blitzes” over the last year to hone in on dodgy suppliers.
They received personal visits and were sent cease-and-desist notices, ordering them to halt operations immediately or risk criminal charges
FACT chairman Kieron Sharp said: “Together with our partners and the police, we constantly review new intelligence and target those areas of the UK and Ireland where the data shows that illegal streaming activity is taking place.”
Cyber Risks
On top of potential punishments, dodgy sticks can expose users to risks including malware, computer viruses, or a number of other scams.
FACT report that up to 2.7 million devices have been infected after using such services, and a third of users have found themselves victims of fraud, with criminals taking over devices such as webcams, and stealing banking details.
While initially the sticks can give users huge savings, many viewers have reported that they have since been targeted by fraudsters, resulting in heavy losses.
Sharp has said: “These unverified services aren’t just unlawful, they expose users to serious risks, including data theft, malware and fraud.”
Police Warning
Detective Chief Inspector Emma Warbey, of the City of London Police’s Intellectual Property Crime Unit, said: “Illegal streaming might look like a quick way to save money, but as this research shows, it’s a false economy that can end up costing people thousands.
“This is a crime that diverts funds away from the entertainment industries – money that supports thousands of technical and support staff.
“At the same time, it exposes end users to the risks of data theft, cybercrime and fraud.”
“We will continue to work collaboratively to ensure that this activity is disrupted and those involved are held to account,” she added.
Conclusion
In conclusion, using dodgy streaming devices can lead to serious legal consequences, including fines and prison sentences, as well as expose users to cyber risks such as malware and fraud.
It is essential to be aware of the risks and to use legitimate streaming services to avoid these dangers.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is owning a modified Firestick illegal?
A: Owning a modified or “jailbroken” Firestick is not illegal in itself, but using it to access unauthorised, copyrighted content without paying is against the law in the UK.
Q: What are the potential punishments for using a dodgy streaming device?
A: Potential punishments include severe financial penalties, criminal charges, and prison sentences.
Q: What are the cyber risks associated with using dodgy streaming devices?
A: Cyber risks include malware, computer viruses, and other scams, with up to 2.7 million devices infected and a third of users victims of fraud.
Q: What can I do to avoid these risks?
A: Use legitimate streaming services and be aware of the risks associated with using dodgy streaming devices.
