Three individuals have been arrested in a month-long crackdown on illegal streaming coordinated by anti-piracy group FACT.

Pirates have increasingly used modified Firestick devices, which were among several items seized in an extensive operation conducted by FACT and partners, including Sky. This initiative marks one of the largest of its kind to date.

Forty illegal IPTV operators were identified, investigated, and issued official warnings. Cease-and-desist notices were delivered in person by FACT and police, as well as through post and email, instructing the operators to immediately stop their illegal activities or face criminal prosecution.

The operation targeted individuals across the UK, including London, South East England, West Midlands, North West, North East, North Wales, and Scotland.

Three warrants were served, leading to the arrest of a 42-year-old man in Nottingham, a 51-year-old man in Widnes, and a 52-year-old man in Stockton-on-Tees. Digital devices and ‘fully loaded’ smart TV devices or Firesticks were seized and are currently undergoing forensic examination by FACT.

“The rise in illegal IPTV operators using modified Firesticks to unlawfully access premium content is a growing concern. This not only infringes upon copyright laws but deprives content creators and distributors of their rightful earnings and disrupts the economic balance of the creative industry,” said FACT CEO Kieron Sharp.

Sky has actively worked to remove listings and social media posts selling illegal IPTV subscriptions and ‘loaded’ Firesticks in the UK and Ireland, removing over 3,000 during this period.

“The action taken by FACT, police, and Sky across the country sends a strong message to those involved in illegal streaming operations that they will be identified, and they will face consequences,” said Matt Hibbert, Group Director of Anti-Piracy at Sky.

About FACT

FACT (Federation Against Copyright Theft) is a UK-based organization dedicated to combating piracy and protecting intellectual property rights in the film, television, and sports industries. Established in 1983, FACT works closely with law enforcement agencies, rights holders, and legal professionals to investigate and disrupt illegal streaming, counterfeiting, and copyright infringement. It plays a key role in prosecuting offenders and raising awareness about the impact of piracy on the entertainment industry. FACT also provides educational resources to help consumers avoid illegal content and supports businesses in safeguarding their digital content from unauthorized distribution, ensuring creators are fairly compensated.