What are the punishments for illegal streaming?
A UK-based Yahoo article warns that using modified Fire Sticks to illegally stream TV—including live sports via IPTV—can have serious legal, financial, and security consequences . The Federation Against Copyright Theft (FACT) is actively investigating, sending cease-and-desist letters and collaborating with police to conduct “knock-and-talk” visits to users’ homes .
While jailbreaking a device isn’t illegal per se, using it for unauthorized streaming is. Offenders may face fines up to £1,000 (or £2,000 in Guernsey) and, in extreme cases, imprisonment if associated with large-scale distribution . The crackdown is part of a broader effort; police and justice agencies are prioritizing dismantling organized piracy networks and targeting resellers rather than just individual users .
Beyond legal risks, jailbroken devices may be loaded with malware, posing threats like identity theft, hacking of home networks, and financial fraud . FACT and authorities emphasize these devices empower organized crime and threaten both the creative industries and user security.
