Overview
- Amazon confirmed it is blocking apps identified as providing pirated content on Fire TV, including sideloaded apps, with enforcement already underway in France and Germany and set to expand globally.
- The new Fire TV Stick 4K Select uses VegaOS, which disables sideloading and restricts downloads to the Amazon Appstore to prevent modified piracy apps from running.
- UK actions this year include raids, cease‑and‑desist letters, and ‘knock and talk’ home visits across at least 17 regions, while 13 Irish IPTV operators received legal notices that led to shutdowns and settlements.
- National Trading Standards and City of London Police warn that illegal streaming exposes users to malware, data theft and fraud, with BeStreamWise reporting average losses of about £1,680 among affected users.
- FACT points to prosecutions and potential fines up to £50,000 for suppliers, penalties for viewers, and continuing industry cooperation through ACE, which has supported major takedowns.