Amazon Fire Stick crackdown as viewers streaming Premier League games at risk of raids
The article highlights the UK’s intensified crackdown on illegal streaming of Premier League matches using modified Amazon Fire TV Sticks. These “fully-loaded” devices enable users to access premium content without proper authorization. Enforcement actions, led by the Federation Against Copyright Theft (FACT) in collaboration with local police, have targeted both sellers and users of illegal IPTV services. Over two weeks, cease-and-desist warnings were issued to 30 suppliers across regions like the West Midlands, Staffordshire, and Derbyshire.
Kieron Sharp, FACT’s CEO, warned that continued illegal activity could lead to criminal prosecution. The article also emphasizes risks for users, including exposure to malware and cyberattacks through unauthorized apps. Such modified devices often lack updates, making them vulnerable to hackers. Additionally, UK authorities clarify that adapting Fire TV Sticks to stream pirated content is illegal, even though the devices themselves are legal when used properly.
The campaign is part of broader efforts to protect intellectual property, ensure fair compensation for creators, and prevent cybersecurity threats. Authorities urge individuals to stop using or distributing such devices to avoid serious legal and personal consequences.
