The trend of illegally streaming content from platforms like Sky is gaining traction among UK households seeking cost-saving alternatives. Transitioning to ‘dodgy’ devices such as Fire TV Sticks for accessing sports and movies may seem economical initially, but it can lead to unexpected financial repercussions.
Recent findings by BeStreamWise indicate that a significant 40% of surveyed illegal streamers in the UK have fallen victim to financial fraud, with some individuals facing bills as high as £1,680. Illicit streaming often exposes users to data breaches, allowing hackers to pilfer credit card information and compromise accounts.
On average, illegal streamers manage to save £13.38 per month, totaling £160 annually. However, the potential losses from falling prey to cybercriminals far surpass these savings, with an average financial hit of £1,680 reported. Ethical hacker Rob Shapland warns that accessing unauthorized streams can inadvertently facilitate personal data theft, emphasizing the risks associated with using modified devices or illegitimate streaming apps.
In addition to monetary losses, a majority of illegal stream viewers have encountered security threats, including malware and malicious pop-ups. Detective Chief Inspector Emma Warbey from the Police Intellectual Property Crime Unit highlights the detrimental impact of illegal streaming on entertainment industries, urging the public to prioritize legal and secure content consumption to safeguard against cyber threats and financial losses.
Collaborative efforts are underway to combat illicit streaming activities and hold offenders accountable, underscoring the importance of initiatives like BeStreamWise in promoting online safety and responsible content consumption.