Overview
- Amazon confirmed it will disable Fire TV apps identified as enabling pirated content, including sideloaded software, with initial blocking in Germany and France and global expansion planned.
- Amazon’s new Vega OS on recent Fire TV models prevents sideloading and currently lacks VPN app support, tightening technical avenues often used for illicit streaming.
- Anti-piracy group FACT says nationwide enforcement continues through cease-and-desist letters and “knock and talk” home visits, targeting named regions across England and Wales.
- Police raided four West Yorkshire properties in late October and arrested four men on suspicion of copyright and money‑laundering linked to an IPTV network alleged to sell hacked Fire Sticks; all were interviewed and released pending investigation.
- BeStreamWise research cited by police and campaigners reports roughly two in five users of illegal streaming devices suffered financial fraud, with average losses around £1,680 and some cases exceeding £7,500.