6th March 2025 - New research from anti-illegal streaming initiative, BeStreamWise, in partnership with consumer champion, Matt Allwright exposes the hidden dangers of illegal streaming, revealing that 1 in 4 scam victims believe they were targeted as a direct result of online piracy*.
Despite more than half of Brits (53%) believing illegal streaming carries little to no serious consequences, *the reality is far more alarming. The study finds that of those who have had money stolen from their bank account, illegal streamers lose four times as much money to scams compared to those who don’t pirate content (£5,486 vs £1,328 on average)*.
The widespread nature of illegal streaming is a key concern, with 43% of people admitting they have recommended illegal streaming to someone they know. However, with the dangers unbeknownst to 44% of the population*, the true cost of free content can be far greater than expected.
Mark**, an illegal streamer from the Northwest of England, thought he was simply sidestepping subscription costs. Using a jailbroken device set up by a friend, he was a target of fraud, with his bank details leaked and attempted transactions made on his account.
“I used to think illegal streaming was harmless” says Mark “but after my bank details were stolen and someone attempted to load thousands onto a prepaid card, it made me realise how dangerous it could be, and I stopped immediately.”
Illegal streaming sites and apps are often used to deliver dangerous malware, with 76% of the UK’s 30 most-visited pirate sites actively exposing users to scams, financial fraud, and explicit content—posing a serious threat to online safety***.
Matt Allwright, presenter, journalist and consumer champion said: “People might think that illegal streaming is a quick and harmless way to dodge a subscription fee, but the reality is now looking far riskier. Clicking on the wrong link or using a dodgy box or stick could open the door to criminals, who are more than happy to help themselves to your personal details, finances and even your identity. What seems like a ‘free’ way to enjoy your favourite content could quickly end up with you paying a much higher price than you expected.”
Those involved in operating online piracy services when caught face serious consequences. In October 2024, Cormac McGuckin, who had 23 previous convictions including theft and fraud, was sentenced to four years in prison for running an illegal streaming service which gave subscribers access to Sky Sports and BT Sports free of charge.
BeStreamWise offers an insight into the risks of illegal streaming and safe routes to enjoy your favourite content. The streaming initiative is supported by government bodies and leading organisations across film, TV and sports, including British Association for Screen Entertainment, Intellectual Property Office (IPO), FACT, CrimeStoppers, Sky, ITV, BBC and the Premier League.
Liz Bales, CEO of the British Association for Screen Entertainment and the Digital Entertainment Group International (DEGI) said: “This new research shows that those seeking ‘free’ content may in fact be paying a far higher price. Illegal streaming is not a victimless crime – it harms the creative industries, but simultaneously it exposes users to scams, theft, and malware with dangerous and far-reaching personal consequences.”
For further information on the initiative and to find out how to view content safely visit BeStreamWise.com
*Sapio Research, Commissioned by BeStreamWise – February 2025
**Anonymised name due to partaking in illegal activity
**Industry Trust and CorSearch 2024 (Safer Internet Day)
About the British Association for Screen Entertainment (BASE)
The British Association for Screen Entertainment (BASE), previously known as the British Video Association (BVA), has represented the interests of publishers and rights-owners of visual entertainment for 45 years. In a world of evolving technology and fluid consumer behaviours, the primary objective of BASE is to champion the growth of screen entertainment while maintaining a business environment with the fewest regulatory burdens. Our members are represented within the £5.1 billion UK Home Entertainment market alongside Affiliate and Associate members from a host of critical industry stakeholders. For more information or to enquire about membership, visit www.baseorg.uk
