Illegal streaming has been on the rise in recent years, driven by the ongoing cost-of-living challenges. Many households in the UK are seeking more affordable ways to access premium content, often turning to unofficial platforms that promise full content at a fraction of the legitimate price.
However, the spotlight remains firmly on illegal streaming, as a popular service offering access to content, including Sky channels, has been permanently shut down. Subscribers who had paid for this service are now left with financial losses.
Nishan Silva, a 34-year-old individual from Hitchin, has been sentenced to three years in prison for his involvement in managing an illicit IPTV service. Operating under the aliases Andy UTV and Ultimate TV Service, the platform attracted thousands of users.
Silva, a former accountant, admitted to charges related to copyright infringement and money laundering. The illegal subscription-based service he operated granted unauthorized access to various streaming services, generating substantial revenue estimated in the hundreds of thousands of pounds.
Authorities emphasized the gravity of Silva’s actions, noting that he exploited his professional skills and position to engage in criminal activities. Efforts by the Police Intellectual Property Crime Unit (PIPCU) underscore their commitment to combatting illegal streaming and safeguarding consumers from associated risks such as data theft and malware.
Sky’s Group Director of Anti-Piracy, Matt Hibbert, expressed appreciation for PIPCU’s prosecution of the case, highlighting the severity with which such crimes are treated. Sky reiterated its dedication to combating content theft and protecting viewers from the dangers linked to unauthorized streaming.
It is essential to remember that besides facing legal consequences, illegal streaming exposes individuals to cybersecurity threats and inappropriate content.