The Premier League – and UK authorities – are focusing on another crackdown on so-called ‘dodgy’ Fire TV sticks.
The Premier League and UK authorities are ramping up efforts to tackle the issue of ‘dodgy’ Fire TV sticks as many football fans across the country opt for illegal streaming devices over official providers. These alternatives offer up more wallet-friendly ways to catch live games and a wider selection of content.
However, with Premier League matches being broadcast on Sky Sports, TNT Sports and Amazon Prime this season, fans face high costs if they want to follow all the action, especially since Saturday’s traditional 3pm kick-offs remain unaired due to the UK’s well-documented ‘blackout rule’. Now, FACT has sent a stark warning to users of these illicit streaming devices, stating they “risk facing serious consequences.”
This comes after a significant crackdown throughout the UK, which saw over 30 suppliers of pre-loaded Fire TV Sticks targeted in just two weeks, with more actions on the horizon. Suppliers have been ordered to cease sales immediately or face further repercussions.
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In one case, a 42-year-old man from Newport was arrested, and various television-watching gadgets were seized for forensic analysis. Additionally, FACT has made several takedown requests to social media platforms and online marketplaces to disrupt illegal IPTV activities further.
Kieron Sharp, CEO of FACT, said: “Our cease-and-desist measures are not just warnings-they are the first step toward holding offenders accountable. Many who ignored these notices in the past are now facing arrest and criminal charges.
“We strongly advise anyone involved in these activities to stop immediately. If you’re supplying – or using – illicit streaming devices or illegal IPTV subscriptions, take this as a clear warning; you are breaking the law and you risk facing serious consequences.
“We will continue working with police to track down and shut down these illegal operations. The police across the UK have been unstinting in their efforts to tackle this criminality and we are grateful for their assistance.
“To those using illegal streaming services, the message is that you’re not just committing a crime – you are putting yourself at risk. These services often expose users to malware, scams and data theft, with no recourse when things go wrong. The safest, smartest and only choice is to stick to legitimate providers for your entertainment.”
The Premier League is keeping a close eye on the traditional 3pm kick-offs, with discussions about potentially scrapping the longstanding domestic black-out rule. However, any changes might be challenging to implement before the current Premier League TV deal in the UK concludes.
This agreement, secured in 2023 alongside Sky Sports and TNT Sports, sees the league pocketing £6.7bn over four years for its UK television rights, starting from the 2025/2026 season. The Premier League maintains that Article 48 exists to “protect attendances throughout the English football pyramid”.
Meanwhile, ‘dodgy’ Fire TV Sticks are gaining traction among viewers looking for a cheaper way to access premium content. These devices often come pre-loaded with illegal access to sports streams, available for a modest fee.
