Sky and FACT send cease-and-desist notices to IPTV sellers

Ten suspected sellers of illegal streaming devices in Ireland have been issued cease-and-desist notices this week, marking the latest phase of a sustained crackdown on content piracy. The Federation Against Copyright Theft (FACT), working alongside the broadcaster Sky, sent legal warnings to individuals operating in counties Carlow, Cork, Dublin, Galway, Kildare, Laois, and Limerick.

The targeted individuals are alleged resellers of illegal IPTV subscriptions, often called "dodgy boxes," which provide unauthorized access to premium television channels, live sports, and films. The services are believed to have supplied illegal streams to thousands of end-users across the country. The letters instruct the recipients to stop selling the subscriptions immediately or face further action, which could include civil proceedings or a referral to An Garda Síochána, Ireland's national police service.

FACT Investigation Manager Nick Sumner stated that the operation is designed to disrupt the supply chain for illegal streaming. He explained that resellers act as a direct link to the public, often selling subscriptions through personal recommendations, social media, and messaging services....