As part of an ongoing commitment against illegal streaming in the country, and to protect consumers from the risks posed by illegal streaming services, the Federtion Against Copyright Theft (FACT) and its partners conducted a third enforcement operation across Ireland. The first two such operations took place in March and August 2023.
‘Cease and desist’ notices were delivered in person, by post and by email. The action bore quick results, with the vast majority of illegal streaming services being shut down. Further action is taken against those who fail to comply.
FACT and its partners issued a total of 22 legal warnings as part of the operation, instructing those selling modified Fire Sticks to immediately stop all illegal streaming activity otherwise risk facing the consequences, including criminal prosecution. Addresses across Dublin, Cork, Meath, West Meath, Kilkenny, Clare, Limerick, Louth, Galway and Monaghan were targeted between January 22nd and February 2.
Ongoing effort
Since the enforcement operation began in 2023, more than 60 targets have been engaged with, resulting in the vast majority of illegal services being taken down, impacting tens of thousands who would have watched the streams. Significant financial settlements have been reached with those identified as having stolen revenue from rightsholders. The outstanding few who have not engaged with the process were being pursued through the courts.
Recent research commissioned by the BeStreamWise initiative found that one in three people in Ireland who illegally stream say that they, or someone they know, had been a victim of fraud, scams, or identity theft as a result. 43% of the Irish population at large were found not knowledgeable about these dangers, they said.
Further reading
Fire Stick sellers targeted in enforcement against illegal IPTV providers across Ireland. Press release. February 24, 2024. Federation Against Copyright Theft (FACT)
FACT joins broadcasters and police in August anti-piracy march across Ireland. Article. September 1, 2023. Piracy Monitor
Warning notices delivered to illegal streaming providers in Ireland. Article. March 13, 2023. Piracy Monitor
Why it matters
Organized to combat copyright infringement, FACT monitors channels used to advertise and sell illegal streams, modified Fire Sticks, and other devices to take action against illegal IPTV suppliers and operators.
“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,” said Eddie Leviten, Chief Operating Officer for FACT. “FACT and its partners are determined to disrupt these criminal operations and non-compliance with the notices could lead to further law enforcement action.”
