Authorities have cracked down on an illegal streaming service that provided unauthorized access to premium channels, including sports and movies, through Sky TV. The operation, centered in Manchester, led to the arrest of four individuals and the seizure of equipment worth £750,000.
The investigation, initiated by Sky due to suspicious activities, revealed a large-scale illegal IPTV service catering to millions of users across the UK. One suspect allegedly profited over £3 million from the illicit operation. While users accessing the streams have not been targeted, their ability to watch the content has been blocked.
Detective Constable Jordan Day of the Police Intellectual Property Crime Unit (PIPCU) emphasized the criminal nature of such services, noting the substantial profits generated by organized crime. The collaboration between law enforcement and companies like Sky aims to dismantle illegal networks and hold piracy perpetrators accountable.
Matt Hibbert, Sky’s Group Director of Anti-Piracy, commended the swift action against the pirate operation, underlining the company’s commitment to safeguarding its content. He warned viewers of the risks associated with illegal streaming, citing research indicating security threats such as malware affecting a significant portion of illegal streamers.
The crackdown serves to protect consumers, their devices, and personal data from potential security breaches linked to unlawful streaming practices.