Police may visit those who use “dodgy” Firesticks as a result of Amazon‘s crackdown on streaming.
Jailbreaking smartphones to view any channel without paying for a subscription has become more popular among consumers.
subscription-based program Sky and Trading Standard are now working together to threaten arrests for people who are proving the streams.
Federation Against Copyright Theft (FACT UK) are preparing to send cease and desist letters and officials to users doorsteps.
Under copyright law those found to be fraudulently receiving transmissions can be sentenced to up to 10 years in prison.
They have also warned those using the illegal streaming services are having their personal data stored with providers selling it on for profit.
FACT UK said: ‘Fact constantly monitors the digital landscape to combat illegal streaming activities in the UK and Ireland.
‘We utilise a range of methods to identify individuals engaged in unauthorised businesses that offer access to illegal streams.
‘One of these methods is through our partnership with Crimestoppers to make it as easy as possible to report illegal streaming, and over the past year, we have seen a significant increase in the number of reports directly linked to Firesticks and illegal streaming.
‘These reports are then investigated by our Intelligence Unit, and followed up with a rolling programme of action which includes issuing “Cease and Desist” letters and conducting nationwide “Knock and Talks”.
‘These home visits, undertaken in conjunction with law enforcement, serve to inform individuals about their activities and the immediate need to cease and desist or face further action or prosecution.
‘We also work In close collaboration with law enforcement to gather further evidence to actively pursue legal actions against these criminal entities.’
