Illegal streaming has been on the rise in recent times, which is not surprising given the ongoing cost-of-living challenges. Many households in the UK are seeking more affordable ways to access premium content, leading them to unofficial platforms that provide full content at a fraction of the legitimate price.
Despite the allure of these platforms, illegal streaming remains under scrutiny. A popular service offering access to content, including Sky channels, has been permanently shut down, leaving subscribers at a loss.
In a significant development, the operator of this illicit online service, Nishan Silva, 34, from Hitchin, has been sentenced to three years in prison by UK authorities. Silva was found to be involved in managing and facilitating an illegal IPTV service known as Andy UTV and Ultimate TV Service, which had a substantial following.
Appearing at Inner London Crown Court on October 2, Silva confessed to several charges, including copyright infringement and handling criminal proceeds. Despite his background as an accountant, Silva was instrumental in operating the illegal subscription-based platform, which generated substantial revenue.
Detective Constable Daryl Fryatt from the Police Intellectual Property Crime Unit described Silva as an intelligent accountant who misused his skills for criminal activities. Fryatt emphasized the unit’s commitment to pursuing criminals profiting from illegal streaming and disrupting their operations.
Matt Hibbert, Group Director of Anti-Piracy at Sky, commended the Police Intellectual Property Crime Unit for their efforts in prosecuting Silva. Hibbert reaffirmed Sky’s dedication to combating content theft and safeguarding consumers from the dangers associated with illegal streaming.
In addition to facing legal consequences, engaging in illegal streaming poses other risks, including exposure to malware and inappropriate content. It is crucial for consumers to be aware of these risks and opt for legal and secure streaming options.
