Illegal streaming through ‘dodgy’ Fire TV Sticks has seen a surge in popularity lately, offering users access to premium content at a fraction of official platform prices like Sky. As the cost-of-living crisis tightens budgets, millions are turning to these unauthorized devices, but Amazon is now taking a stand against this practice.
Amazon has announced its plan to block apps suspected of facilitating illegal streams on Fire TV Sticks. A company spokesperson emphasized that piracy is unlawful and that Amazon has always taken steps to prevent it within its Appstore. Through collaboration with the Alliance for Creativity and Entertainment (ACE), Amazon will now actively block apps identified as providing access to pirated content, including those downloaded from external sources.
When flagged, users will receive a notification explaining the reason for the block, resulting in the app’s non-functionality. While Amazon is not prohibiting sideloading of applications, official streaming apps such as Disney+, Netflix, and Prime Video will continue to operate. However, this move is expected to make it significantly more challenging for users to access content without a legitimate subscription.
This development, initially rolling out in Europe, will eventually impact all UK users. While the crackdown on illegal streaming is a positive step, underlying issues driving individuals to seek unauthorized content, such as rising subscription costs, remain unaddressed. Noted analyst Paolo Pescatore views Amazon’s action as overdue and a positive stride forward, although he highlights the broader problem of escalating subscription fees burdening consumers.
Despite the risks associated with illegal streaming, including exposure to malware and inappropriate content, these concerns have not deterred individuals from engaging in illicit streaming practices. Amazon’s proactive stance aims to curb this behavior and promote lawful content consumption.