Fire Stick sellers in Galway are being targeted in an enforcement against illegal IPTV providers across Ireland. It was confirmed last night that FACT has launched a third wave of action across Ireland targeting those selling illegal access to premium TV content.
The latest round of action focuses on those selling modified or ‘fully loaded’ smart tv devices, such as Amazon Fire Sticks.
FACT and its partners issued a total of 22 legal warnings as part of the operation, with ‘cease and desist’ notices being delivered in person, by post and by email. The cease-and-desist notices instruct those selling the modified Fire Sticks to immediately stop all illegal streaming activity otherwise risk facing the consequences, including criminal prosecution.
Eddy Leviten Chief Operating Officer at FACT, said that by taking these measures they are sending a clear message: piracy is a crime, and it is taken seriously.
“FACT will continue to monitor channels used to advertise and sell illegal streams, modified Fire Sticks, and other devices to take action against illegal IPTV suppliers and operators.”
Addresses across Dublin, Cork, Meath, Westmeath, Kilkenny, Clare, Limerick, Louth, Galway and Monaghan have been targeted between 22nd January and 2nd February.
“Operators of illegal IPTV services should be aware that not only are they committing an offence themselves, but they’re also putting consumers at real risk of malware, data loss and identity theft. FACT and its partners are determined to disrupt these criminal operations and non-compliance with the notices could lead to further law enforcement action,” said Eddy Leviten.
This is the third enforcement operation to sweep Ireland. The first two took place in March and August 2023 and are part of an ongoing commitment to eliminate illegal streaming in the country and protect consumers from the risks posed by illegal streaming services.
The action is already having an impact, with the vast majority of illegal streaming services being shut down. Further action will be taken against those who fail to comply.
