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While streaming from devices such as Amazon Firesticks is perfectly legal, many are modified with unauthorised apps or add-ons that allow people to access copyrighted content illegally. These are often sold with a one-off fee, through unofficial sources.

Illegal streaming sites will offer free access to copyrighted content, while links to similar content can also be shared across social media platforms.

In all cases, users should be on their guard. Sites and apps are often used to deliver dangerous or malicious content, such as malware, sophisticated scams, and extreme/explicit content. And when consumers part with personal information, such as email addresses or payment details, they should be aware that they are sharing those details with criminal organisations.

Illegal streaming puts users at risk of being exposed to a range of malicious content.

Illegal streaming sites and apps are often used to deliver dangerous malware, which can allow criminals to access users’ networks or devices, exposing them to scams, fraud and even identity theft. This risk increases significantly when users exchange credit or debit card information to view content on unregulated and illicit websites.

Additionally, watching content via an illicit source can expose younger viewers to age-inappropriate content. These unauthorised websites, devices, apps, add-ons, and the content they can access have no parental controls.

Illegal streaming providers often have links to serious and organised crime.

Beware of online pop-up ads and ads for streaming services online.

Beware of online pop-up ads and ads for streaming services online. Verify their legitimacy independently by researching the brand. A simple way to do this is by searching the provider's name alongside "SCAM" to uncover information about it. If it is a scam, you may find feedback about this online.

Never share personal or financial details online or elsewhere unless you are certain you are dealing with a legitimate brand.

Be suspicious of adverts that use urgency or other pressure tactics to get you to buy or subscribe. Don't act in the heat of the moment. It is always best to verify their official website or with their customer service before acting.

Use unique strong passwords with numbers and special characters for all your accounts.

Never reuse your password for more than one site and use a password manager if possible. Enabling MFA (multi-factor authentication) allows for another layer of security whenever someone tries to log in to your accounts.

Check your bank statements regularly.

Notify your bank if you see anything suspicious or unexpected on your account.

Remember that scams come in all shapes and sizes.

You can be contacted via phone, text, email or through social media DMs. Scammers will ask the victim to give something whether that’s money, information or even to click on links or open attachments. You should be suspicious and double-check before sending money or information, especially if you feel emotional or time pressure to do so.

What to do if you suspect someone is facilitating illegal streaming:

 If you have information on who is selling, distributing, or promoting illegal content or selling these fully-loaded devices - or offering them with instructions for modifying them to access illegal content – You can contact Sky, FACT,  Crimestoppers UK or the City of London Police online.

Head to this page full of useful links for more resources:

https://bestreamwise.com/useful-links

UK: If you have information on who is selling, distributing, or promoting illegal content or selling these fully-loaded devices - or offering them with instructions for modifying them to access illegal content – You can contact Sky, FACT, Crimestoppers UK or the City of London Police online.

ROI: If you have information on who is selling, distributing, or promoting illegal content or selling these fully-loaded devices - or offering them with instructions for modifying them to access illegal content – You can contact FACT, Crimestoppers UK or the police.