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UK Crackdown on Illegal Fire Sticks Widens to 17 Areas as FACT Texts Users to Stop

Amazon tightens Fire TV security with Vega OS, blocking piracy apps.

Overview

  • FACT says more than 1,000 UK users have received texts or emails instructing them to cease using illegal streaming services or risk prosecution.
  • Police and anti-fraud units report active enforcement across 17 UK areas, including Stoke-on-Trent and Staffordshire.
  • Authorities warn viewers and suppliers face serious penalties, with FACT citing potential fines up to £50,000 and possible prison sentences.
  • Police and anti-piracy officials highlight risks such as malware, data theft and funding of organised crime linked to illegal streaming.
  • Industry measures include Amazon’s Fire TV Stick 4K Select running Vega OS that removes sideloading and ACE-backed blocks on piracy apps, while legal notices in Ireland forced 13 IPTV services to shut down.