Lancashire Police have sent cease-and-desist letters to 7,000 subscribers of an illegal streaming service, stating that subscribing to these services is a crime which carries a maximum sentence of up to five years imprisonment and/or a fine; and a criminal record.
According to the UK’s Federation Against Copyright Theft, FACT, the subscriber list was discovered after officers arrested a 28-year-old man in connection with suspected illegal streaming of premium TV channels, fraud and money laundering. Two high value cars, designer clothing, jewelry and handbags were also seized from the address.
Why it matters
A similar action was carried out by Suffolk and Norfolk police earlier this year.
Olivia Dodding from Lancashire Police Cyber Crime Unit sums it up: “People who subscribe to these services might not realise that they are illegal, but the fact is they are, and we believe that the people who sell them know that.
“What may cost you a relatively small one-off fee, actually results in television producers and sports broadcasters losing millions of pounds which affects their ability to make and show sports events and entertainments series, which many of us enjoy watching.
“Anyone who subscribes to IPTV or any other illegal streaming service should stop now to avoid facing prosecutions themselves.”
So, be good, for goodness sake.
The Lancashire Constabulary also publishes an informative page about online fraud, aimed at regular citizens. FACT collaborates with Crimestoppers, a crime fighting charity that’s active worldwide.