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Legitimate streaming platforms and broadcasters have long targeted illegal streams, commonly referred to as “dodgy boxes” or “dodgy sticks,” in their efforts to combat piracy. Traditionally, enforcement actions have concentrated on those providing these unauthorized devices rather than the end users. However, a recent shift has seen one of Europe’s major subscription providers take a more direct stance against consumers accessing illicit streams.
In the last week, Sky, Europe’s largest subscription television broadcaster, sent approximately 200 cease-and-desist letters to suspected users in the Republic of Ireland. This move follows a similar campaign in the UK during late 2025 when over 1,000 individuals were contacted after investigations by the anti-piracy group FACT. Sky’s approach represents the first time the broadcaster has directly informed viewers about their illegal activity, marking a significant change in enforcement strategy.
This development in Ireland came after legal action against an illegal streaming supplier based in County Wexford. Sky obtained a court order compelling the financial service Revolut to provide customer information linked to payments made to the supplier. Using this data, the broadcaster then sent out warnings to individuals, cautioning them against continued use of unauthorized streams and indicating a willingness to pursue legal action if the recipients failed to comply.
While owning devices capable of streaming content illegally is not against UK law, even if they have been “jailbroken” to install unauthorized apps, accessing or facilitating the illegal content itself can result in legal prosecution, fines, and civil claims from rights holders. FACT chairman Kieron Sharp emphasized the seriousness of illegal streaming, highlighting its potential legal repercussions and risks including exposure to fraud, malware, and data theft. Legal experts, however, note that identifying a user does not necessarily equate to proof of copyright infringement, and that these letters mainly serve as warnings to deter unlawful activity rather than concrete evidence for prosecution
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