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Satdude
24-06-2024, 11:09 AM
UK homes blocked from watching Sky TV for free as 'strong message' sent

One alleged supplier of illegal Sky TV streams has been arrested and equipment believed to have been used to distribute premium shows and movies has been seized

Sky TV subscribers might be in for a shock as their free streams go dark following a fresh crackdown by UK authorities.

The latest sweep has seen the arrest of an individual allegedly peddling illicit Sky content, with his gear for distributing top-tier shows, films, and sports nabbed by police. The 42-year-old man, of Nottingham, was arrested under various acts including the Proceeds of Crime Act, Computer Misuse Act, and the Copyright, Designs and Patents Act, and has been released on bail pending further investigation.

"This action sends out a strong message that we are homing in on those who knowingly commit or facilitate online copyright infringement," declared Detective Sergeant David Beach from Nottinghamshire Police's Cyber Crime Unit.

"Not only is there an enormous loss to the entertainment industry with this particular operation but it is also unfair that millions of people work hard to afford their subscription-only TV services while others cheat the system. Some may think paying for illegal streaming devices and services is a victimless crime but that isn't the case.

Sky's Group Director of Anti-Piracy, Matt Hibbert, expressed gratitude: "We'd like to thank Nottinghamshire Police's Cyber Crime Team for taking this strong action against illegal streaming operators. We will continue to support law enforcement to protect our content, tackle illegal streaming, and help keep consumers safe from the risks illegal streaming can pose."

As the cost of living bites, more people are snubbing costly subscriptions for something a bit shadier. Enter the 'dodgy' Fire TV Stick this little gizmo promises all your favourite shows without the hefty price tag, reports the Express.

Hacked streaming sticks are not only illegal but can cause nasty viruses and gnarly malware to malfunction. Detective Inspector Steve Frame, of Nottinghamshire Police, added: "Illegal streaming is far from a victimless crime, and as well as the impact it has on businesses and content creators, it essentially means that legitimate subscribers pay for those who illegally access such services.

"Illegal streams also increase the risk of users receiving malware, which can put them at increased risk of falling victim to Computer Misuse Act offences."

Satdude