The trend of illegally streaming content from platforms like Sky is on the rise as households in the UK seek cost-saving alternatives. Many are turning to ‘dodgy’ Fire TV Sticks and modified set-top boxes for access to sports and movies at a fraction of the cost.
However, opting for illegal streaming services can result in unexpected financial repercussions. Recent research by BeStreamWise indicates that 40% of surveyed illegal streamers in the UK have fallen victim to financial fraud, with some facing bills as high as £1,680.
One common issue with unofficial streaming platforms is the risk of financial data theft. Hackers exploit user-provided information to pilfer credit card details, leading to unauthorized account access and subsequent fraudulent activities.
The average amount stolen from victims is a staggering £1,680, with instances of even greater losses reported by some individuals. Despite the allure of saving money through illegal streams, the potential risks far outweigh the perceived benefits.
According to BeStreamWise’s study, illegal streamers save an average of £13.38 per month or £160 annually. However, the average potential loss due to fraud is 950% higher than the yearly savings, highlighting the substantial financial risks involved.
Ethical hacker Rob Shapland, with extensive experience in cybersecurity, warns against the dangers of illegal streaming, emphasizing that criminals exploit such platforms to acquire personal information and financial details from unsuspecting users.
In addition to financial losses, many illegal streamers have encountered security threats such as malware and malicious pop-ups, as reported by nearly two-thirds of those who engaged in illegal streaming activities in the past year. Only a minority (27%) claimed to have never experienced such incidents.
Detective Chief Inspector Emma Warbey of the Police Intellectual Property Crime Unit (PIPCU) at City of London Police underscores the deceptive nature of illegal streaming, emphasizing the financial and security risks it poses to individuals. She advocates for initiatives like BeStreamWise that promote safe and legal online content consumption, while also working to disrupt illegal streaming activities and hold perpetrators accountable.