The use of these devices is a “serious crime”, and police forces across the UK and Ireland, as well as organisations including Crimestoppers and the Federation Against Copyright Theft (FACT), have been attempting to stamp them out.
People who access illegal TV streaming services are potentially liable to prosecution for criminal offences, including under Section 11 of the Fraud Act 2006.
Full list of 8 areas targeted in latest ‘dodgy’ Fire TV Stick crackdown
Three arrests were made in Merseyside late last year as part of a coordinated nationwide crackdown on illegal streaming operations, led by FACT, in partnership with UK police forces.
On December 11, Merseyside Police arrested a couple in the Huyton area on suspicion of supplying illegal IPTV services and seized personal electronic devices for further examination.
The arrests follow similar enforcement action on October 25, when Merseyside Police arrested a man in Birkenhead on suspicion of selling pre-loaded streaming devices.
Officers also seized several items, including a mobile phone and cash.
The suspects in both cases have been released under investigation while police enquiries are ongoing.
Detective Sergeant Adam Dagnall of Merseyside Police’s Cybercrime Unit said: “Illegal streaming may appear to be a cheap alternative, but it is often driven by organised criminals and exposes users to scams and data theft.
“Our partnership with FACT helps us quickly identify offenders and take firm action to disrupt these networks and protect the public from the fraud, malware and wider criminality behind them.”
The arrests form part of Operation Eider, FACT’s latest campaign to disrupt illegal streaming networks and protect consumers from the risks associated with illicit online content.
Other areas were targeted in the latest FACT operation, with 14 more cases identified on November 14, 2025.
The eight areas targeted were:
London
South West
North West
North East
Scotland
Wales
Yorkshire and Humber
West Midlands
Of the 14 cases, 12 individuals received cease-and-desist (C&D) notices, while two were served with C&Ds via knock-and-talk enforcement action, in collaboration with the Yorkshire and Humber Regional Organised Crime Unit.
FACT chairman Kieron Sharp said: “These arrests reflect the results of our intelligence-led investigations and the strength of our partnerships with UK law enforcement.
“By sharing intelligence and coordinating action across multiple regions, we are effectively dismantling the supply networks that sit behind illegal streaming.
“It may appear harmless, but illegal streaming fuels organised crime and puts viewers at real risk, from scams and malware to data theft.
Mr Sharp continued: “The safest and only legal way to enjoy the shows and sports you love is through legitimate, licensed providers.”
Thousands warned about use of illegal streaming devices as enforcement intensifies
FACT has also intensified enforcement targeting users of illegal streaming devices/services.
Thousands of individuals across the UK have been contacted and warned to stop using illegal IPTV services immediately or risk criminal prosecution.
This action followed joint investigations with police that uncovered details of customers who had purchased access to so-called “loaded” Fire Sticks, Android, or Kodi devices.
The dangers of using illegal streaming devices
“Illegal streaming services are increasingly operated by sophisticated criminal networks, often involved in other types of crime,” BeSteamWise explained.
People who access illegal TV streaming services are potentially liable to prosecution for criminal offences. (Image: Getty Images)
Meaning those who use illegal streaming devices run the risk of “letting criminals in”, resulting in:
Viruses and malware
ID theft, scams, and fraud
Inappropriate content
Around 39% of illegal streamers in the UK have suffered financial losses due to cybercrime linked to piracy, according to BeStreamWise.
The average amount stolen through illegal streaming is £1,680, while one in ten have lost more than £5,000.
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What is the penalty if caught with a ‘dodgy’ Fire TV Stick?
Not only can the use of illegal streaming devices leave users open to ID theft, fraud, and viruses, but it can also result in fines and jail time.
Those caught using or selling a ‘dodgy’ fire stick/box and streaming premium content without paying are in breach of Section 11 of the Fraud Act 2006.
It says a person will be in breach if they obtain services “without any payment having been made for or in respect of them or without payment having been made in full”.
A person found guilty of this kind of offence could be fined or face a jail sentence of up to five years.
