Amazon has issued a crackdown warning to Fire Stick customers after a man was arrested for illegally streaming content.
The man, a 42-year-old from Nottingham, had been using equipment to distribute Sky TV shows, movies and sports. The gadgets were later all seized by police.
He was arrested under various acts including the Proceeds of Crime Act, Computer Misuse Act, and the Copyright, Designs and Patents Act.
He has been released on bail pending further investigation.
Officers said that the arrest should deter those from watching Sky and other streaming sites without permission.
Detective Sergeant David Beach from Nottinghamshire Police’s Cyber Crime Unit stated: “This action sends out a strong message that we are homing in on those who knowingly commit or facilitate online copyright infringement.”
He added: “Not only is there an enormous loss to the entertainment industry with this particular operation but it is also unfair that millions of people work hard to afford their subscription-only TV services while others cheat the system.
“Some may think paying for illegal streaming devices and services is a victimless crime but that isn’t the case.”
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Matt Hibbert, Group Director of Anti-Piracy at Sky added: “We’d like to thank Nottinghamshire Police’s Cyber Crime Team for taking this strong action against illegal streaming operators.
“We will continue to support law enforcement to protect our content, tackle illegal streaming, and help keep consumers safe from the risks illegal streaming can pose.”
Amidst the cost of living crisis, many individuals have been trying to find cheaper ways to access their favourite content.
This includes using ‘dodgy’ Fire TV sticks – devices loaded with premium shows and movies accessible to viewers without having to pay any monthly costs.
Illegal Fire TV Sticks are wildly popular in the UK as they can unlock access to some of the biggest streaming services and paid-for satellite channels for a low monthly fee — or free, depending on the device AMAZON PRESS OFFICE
Whilst highly appealing to those looking to cut costs, the gadgets are extremely illegal. Earlier this month, police issued a warning about the risks of using such devices.
“Illegal streaming is far from a victimless crime, and as well as the impact it has on businesses and content creators, it essentially means that legitimate subscribers pay for those who illegally access such services,” said Detective Inspector Steve Frame.
“Illegal streams also increase the risk of users receiving malware, which can put them at increased risk of falling victim to Computer Misuse Act offences.
“We will use all available powers and continue to work with FACT to identify anyone else who is involved in this form of criminality and put them before the courts.”