Homes previously accessing Sky TV without paying regular subscription fees may now face disruptions as a major illegal streaming platform has been shut down following a significant police operation. The platform provided unofficial access to premium content from Sky TV channels.
Last week, in Manchester, a major closure occurred with the arrest of four individuals and the seizure of equipment worth £750,000. The operation was initiated after suspicious activity was reported by Sky, leading to the identification of suspects involved in running an unlawful IPTV service catering to millions of users across the UK. One suspect allegedly profited over £3 million from the operation, causing widespread disruption nationwide.
While households utilizing the illegal streams have not been targeted by law enforcement, they will no longer be able to access the blocked content on their TVs.
Detective Constable Jordan Day from the Police Intellectual Property Crime Unit (PIPCU) highlighted the ongoing issue of criminals offering illegal IPTV streaming services, emphasizing the organized crime nature and substantial profits generated. Collaboration with partners like Sky is crucial to combat these illegal networks and hold offenders accountable.
Matt Hibbert, Group Director of Anti-Piracy at Sky, commended the Police Intellectual Property Crime Unit for their swift action against the pirate operation. Protecting content investments and consumer safety remains a top priority, with efforts to disrupt criminal networks behind piracy ongoing.
Research indicates that illegal streaming poses security risks, with nearly 65% of illegal stream viewers encountering malware and other threats. Combating such activities aims to safeguard consumers, their devices, and personal data.
This action aims to protect consumers and disrupt criminal networks behind piracy, emphasizing the importance of collaboration to preserve broadcasting integrity and combat illegal activities.