Police across the UK have raided homes in a nationwide crackdown on illegal streaming and the use of so-called “dodgy” Amazon Fire TV Sticks.
These modified devices — often called “jailbroken” or “modded” Fire Sticks — are being sold by rogue traders who illegally install apps that let users stream paid content for free.
Authorities warn that using or selling illegal streaming devices breaches the Fraud Act 2006 and can lead to hefty fines or imprisonment.
Police and FACT Target Illegal Streaming Networks
The Federation Against Copyright Theft (FACT), working with multiple UK police forces, has been carrying out raids and seizing modified Fire Sticks across the country.
The latest operation targeted over 30 illegal suppliers, resulting in arrests, seizures, and cease-and-desist notices.
One man, aged 42, was arrested in Newport for allegedly selling illicit streaming devices. Others in various regions were warned to stop their operations or face prosecution.
In another case, Jonathan Edge, 29, from Liverpool, was sentenced to three years in prison for selling and using illegal Fire Sticks. Despite receiving warnings from FACT, he continued until the Premier League took legal action.
Amazon and Law Enforcement Join Forces
Amazon has joined the fight against piracy, updating its Fire TV Stick 4K Select to prevent modification.
According to cybersecurity expert James Bore, the new version no longer uses Android and instead runs a proprietary operating system. This change makes it harder for criminals to install illegal streaming apps.
However, experts warn the crackdown may simply push illegal sellers toward non-Amazon streaming devices instead.
Areas Targeted in the FACT Raids
Raids and investigations have taken place in multiple regions, including:
- London
- Kent
- Sussex
- Norfolk
- Northamptonshire
- Lincolnshire
- Staffordshire
- East & West Midlands
- Greater Manchester
- Cheshire
- Merseyside
- Northumbria
- North Yorkshire
What Is the Law on ‘Jailbroken’ Fire TV Sticks?
It is illegal to use or distribute a jailbroken Fire TV Stick that enables users to stream content without paying for it.
These hacked devices bypass official app stores, allowing access to unlicensed apps and pirated material. Watching live TV or sports without a valid TV licence can also lead to fines of up to £1,000 — or £2,000 in Guernsey.
Owning a regular, unmodified Amazon Fire TV Stick is perfectly legal. The crackdown only applies to devices that have been altered for illegal use.
FACT’s Warning to Users and Sellers
Kieron Sharp, Chief Executive of FACT, issued a clear message:
“Our cease-and-desist measures are not just warnings—they are the first step toward holding offenders accountable.
If you’re supplying or using illicit streaming devices or illegal IPTV subscriptions, take this as a clear warning: you are breaking the law and risk facing serious consequences.”
Sharp also cautioned users that illegal streaming services expose viewers to malware, scams, and data theft, with no protection when things go wrong.
