People using modified Firesticks in the UK have been warned after police visited homes across the country.
The action follows the recent jailing of a man in the UK for selling and using illegal Firesticks.
While owning an Amazon Firestick is legal, modifying it—known as jailbreaking—is only allowed if used legally. Streaming paywalled content for free is illegal. Police have been working to address this issue in a nationwide crackdown on illegal streaming.
The Federation Against Copyright Theft (FACT) has partnered with police forces to carry out a two-week operation. The focus is to dismantle piracy networks and target over 30 suppliers selling unauthorized access to paid content.
FACT’s efforts don’t stop at suppliers. Cease-and-desist letters have been delivered in person and by mail to individuals suspected of using illegal streaming services. These letters warn users to stop or face legal action.
The regions targeted in the crackdown include:
- London
- Kent
- Sussex
- Norfolk
- Northamptonshire
- Lincolnshire
- Staffordshire
- East and West Midlands
- Greater Manchester
- Cheshire
- Merseyside
- Northumbria
- North Yorkshire
This operation comes after the sentencing of Jonathan Edge, 29, who received a three-year, four-month jail sentence for continuing to sell and use modified Firesticks after ignoring FACT’s cease-and-desist warnings. A private prosecution by the Premier League led to his conviction.
Another individual, a 42-year-old man from Newport, was arrested during FACT’s recent operation.
Kieron Sharp, CEO of FACT, issued a statement emphasizing the seriousness of these warnings: “Cease-and-desist measures are not just warnings. Those who ignore them can face arrests and charges.”
Sharp also warned users of illegal streaming services about the risks involved, such as malware, scams, and data theft.
His advice is clear: stick to legitimate streaming services for your entertainment. It’s safer, legal, and avoids the risk of serious consequences.
