Britons streaming TV via illegal fire sticks have been put on notice that they will be caught - as police plan to scrutinise their bank statements.Authorities believe approximately four million households are accessing the latest programmes and watching live sport illegally through "dodgy fire sticks".These compact devices plug into the back or side of televisions - and can be modified to unlock hundreds of premium channels, subscription services, the latest films and live Premier League football.
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Read our Privacy PolicyHowever, police are confident they will pursue a number of those households with the latest crackdown, which centres on the examination of bank statements.Acting Detective Chief Inspector Alethea Fowler, of the Tarian Regional Organised Crime Unit in southern Wales, said: "Criminals rarely stop at just one income stream, and by purchasing illicit goods - such as an illegal streaming service fire stick - you are enabling further forms of criminality, often involving exploitation and harm." Read more: Blow for Reeves as McDonald's UK boss complains 'it's 'hard to do business' Read more: Your rights, compensation and what to do if your flight is cancelled Last month, online bank Revolut was instructed to hand over the names and addresses of more than 300 "dodgy box" users to Sky by the Irish High Court after funds were transferred to illegal streaming service provider David Dunbar, of County Wexford in the Republic of Ireland.Article continues below ADVERTISEMENTPolice are reportedly compiling lists of users and their addresses, according to the Daily Mail.They have cautioned that they are aware the device - while legitimate in itself - can be tampered with or cloned by unscrupulous individuals or criminals who sell the devices on.
Article continues below ADVERTISEMENTAuthorities warn that those possessing such devices could face fines running into thousands of pounds or potentially serve custodial sentences.The nationwide operation, designated Operation Eider, may result in unannounced visits to homes by officers armed with search warrants.The clampdown is orchestrated by the Federation Against Copyright Theft (FACT), an anti-piracy body backed by the film and video sector, with police forces throughout the UK participating.Officers can now impose stricter penalties on individuals discovered using these unlawful gadgets.Kieron Sharp, chairman of FACT, said: "We have a wide range of enforcement options - from issuing cease and desist notices to 'knock and talk' visits - through to full criminal prosecutions where appropriate.
We will take robust action against those involved - not only targeting sellers and distributors, but also those facilitating and profiting from the illegal activity."Television viewers enticed to purchase an illegal device believing it will save them money may, consequently, discover themselves considerably out of pocket - while facing the prospect of imprisonment.The harshest penalties will be reserved for "supplying and distributing TV fire sticks and concealing bank transfers linked to criminal activity".
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