London, UK – Sports fans in the UK who use ‘dodgy’ firesticks to watch Premier League football for free are being warned of the risk of exposing their bank details to criminals. Legal experts have cautioned that apart from the potential legal consequences, these illegal streaming devices also make users vulnerable to organized crime groups.
According to Samuel O’Toole, an intellectual property lawyer, crime gangs across the country offer firestick logon details with unlimited live channels for as little as £40, a far cry from the £100 per month one would have to pay for legitimate channels like Sky and Discovery+. O’Toole drew a comparison, stating that using these devices is akin to inviting a fox into a hen house because sensitive data stored on users’ computers and tablets, such as those used for online banking or shopping, can be accessed by criminals.
Not only can criminals gain access to users’ home computer networks through these illegal devices, but they can also harvest personal information, including credit card details. This data can then be sold on the dark web, leaving individuals vulnerable to identity theft and fraud. Using illicit streaming platforms can also expose users to malware and viruses that can not only compromise online security but also damage devices.
Apart from the risks to individuals, there are broader implications for the creative industry. O’Toole emphasized that using these devices amounts to copyright infringement and can have serious consequences. In recent years, the UK has seen criminal prosecutions and significant prison sentences for illegal streaming network operators. The UK Film Council estimates that the film and television industry suffers a loss of over £400 million annually due to piracy.
Moreover, O’Toole argued that legal streaming services and content creators can only thrive and produce quality content when people pay for their efforts. He warned that copyright infringers, especially those making money from stolen content, could face imprisonment. Additionally, individual streamers could be taken to court, where they might face heavy fines and the possibility of losing their homes.
The message to sports and movie fans is clear: opting for illegal streaming devices not only supports criminal activity but also puts personal data at risk and perpetuates copyright infringement. By choosing legitimate channels and paying the appropriate licensing fees, individuals can enjoy content without compromising their online security or facing legal repercussions.