Irish viewers who use illegal streaming services to watch live TV, sports, or movies could soon face direct financial penalties ranging from €154 to €5,000, under new measures being considered by the Irish government. The proposed changes would bring Ireland in line with countries such as Italy, which has recently introduced some of the toughest anti-piracy rules in Europe.

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In Italy, authorities have begun directly targeting end users of illegal IPTV and streaming platforms, rather than only going after the service operators. Using advanced tracking systems and cooperation with internet providers, Italian regulators can now identify and fine individuals who access unlicensed content. The Irish government is reportedly studying the effectiveness of this model and exploring how it could be applied under national copyright law.

The new initiative comes amid growing pressure from broadcasters, rights holders, and sports leagues who say piracy is cutting deeply into their revenues. According to industry estimates, illegal streaming costs European media companies billions of euros each year, particularly through the unauthorised redistribution of live football, films, and subscription TV channels.

At the same time, Amazon has stepped up its own anti-piracy efforts by targeting unlicensed apps on its Fire TV platform, many of which allow users to access free live channels and premium content without paying. The company has reportedly begun removing or disabling apps linked to illegal IPTV providers and is warning users that installing or promoting such apps could breach its terms of service.

The coordinated European clampdown reflects a broader shift in enforcement strategy — one that focuses on both the supply and the demand side of the illegal streaming economy. Irish officials have yet to confirm when the new fines might come into effect, but legal experts say that, if adopted, the move could significantly deter casual piracy and reshape how viewers across Ireland access online entertainment