The Federation Against Copyright Theft seized a list of people who have bought the devices and have been getting in touch
Users of illicit Firesticks have been issued a fresh warning following a string of new arrests and raids, which also targeted individuals who purchased the devices with cautionary emails. A recent operation led to the arrest of three individuals as part of a “coordinated nationwide crackdown” on unlawful streaming activities.
The Federation Against Copyright Theft (FACT), in collaboration with UK police forces, spearheads the operation. These arrests are part of Operation Eider, FACT’s latest initiative aimed at disrupting illicit streaming networks and safeguarding consumers from the risks associated with illegal online content.
In November, additional cases were identified across various regions, including London, the South West, North West, North East, Scotland, Wales, Yorkshire and Humber, and the West Midlands. Concurrently, FACT reached out to over a thousand individuals nationwide via email and text, urging them to immediately cease using illegal TV streaming services to avoid potential prosecution.
This campaign expands on investigations conducted in partnership with police forces across the country and is part of FACT’s ongoing efforts to raise awareness about the risks associated with illegal streaming.
FACT cautioned that individuals accessing illicit TV streaming services risk facing prosecution for serious crimes, including under Section 11 of the Fraud Act 2006. Their latest campaign alerts users that they can be identified and that viewing unauthorised content carries considerable risks.
During probes into Edge and other illicit streaming services (with a pending prosecution), investigators seized data on customers who purchased access to so-called “loaded” Firesticks, Android, or Kodi devices. These customers have since been notified directly about the dangers of using illicit streaming services.
Merseyside Police recently arrested a couple in Huyton on suspicion of providing illicit IPTV services, confiscating personal electronic devices for further examination on December 11, 2025. This followed similar enforcement actions on October 25, when a man was arrested in Birkenhead for allegedly selling pre-loaded streaming devices.
Police also seized several items, including a mobile phone and cash. The suspects in both cases have been released pending investigation while enquiries continue.
A total of 12 individuals received cease-and-desist notices, whilst two were served with notices via knock-and-talk enforcement action, in collaboration with the Yorkshire and Humber Regional Organised Crime Unit.
Following collaborative investigations with the police, details of customers who had bought access to “loaded” Fire Sticks, Android, or Kodi devices were uncovered, prompting this action. According to FACT, it is working closely with law enforcement agencies across the UK to identify, disrupt, and deter those involved in illegal streaming through targeted operations, cease-and-desist campaigns, and criminal prosecutions.
Kieron Sharp, FACT chairman, stated: “These arrests reflect the results of our intelligence-led investigations and the strength of our partnerships with UK law enforcement.
“By sharing intelligence and coordinating action across multiple regions, we are effectively dismantling the supply networks that sit behind illegal streaming.
“It may appear harmless, but illegal streaming fuels organised crime and puts viewers at real risk, from scams and malware to data theft.
“The BeStreamWise campaign which FACT supports, reminds the public that what looks like a bargain can have serious consequences. The safest and only legal way to enjoy the shows and sports you love is through legitimate, licensed providers.”
Detective Sergeant Adam Dagnall of Merseyside Police’s Cybercrime Unit added: “Illegal streaming may appear to be a cheap alternative, but it is often driven by organised criminals and exposes users to scams and data theft.
“Our collaboration with FACT enables us to swiftly pinpoint offenders and take decisive measures to dismantle these networks, thereby safeguarding the public from the associated risks of scams, malware, and broader illicit activities.”
Reports emerged last month that Amazon had introduced enhanced security features to combat illicit streaming on their devices with the latest version of the Fire Stick. The newly-released Fire TV Stick 4K Select will operate on an alternative system, known as Vega OS.
This change means that altered Android apps will cease to function on upgraded models, given that the capacity to install third-party applications will be eliminated.
Amazon confirmed that solely programmes from the Amazon Appstore on Fire TV will be accessible for download “for enhanced security” in a move that presents a substantial challenge for those creating such modifications.
An Amazon spokesperson said: “Piracy is illegal, and we’ve always worked to block it from our app store. Through an expanded program led by the Alliance for Creativity and Entertainment (ACE), a global coalition fighting digital piracy, we’ll now block apps identified as providing access to pirated content, including those downloaded from outside our app store.
“This builds on our ongoing efforts to support creators and protect customers, as piracy can also expose users to malware, viruses, and fraud.”
T/DCI Alethea Fowler of Tarian Regional Organised Crime Unit stated: “Users of illegal streaming services may see it as a harmless crime, but there is no such thing. Not only do the end users of these services face risks such as loss of personal data and fire risk to their property, but they are also funding serious and organised crime. Criminals rarely stop at one income stream, and by purchasing illicit goods you are enabling further forms of criminality, often involving exploitation and harm.
“We would encourage anyone who is considering using illegal streaming services to consider the risks to themselves, their families, and their wider communities. Tarian ROCU will continue to work with partners such as FACT to identify distributors and bring them to justice.”