Fans who engage in the unauthorized streaming of sports events using IPTV platforms have been cautioned about the potential consequences, which may include a significant prison sentence.
As the costs of subscriptions for mainstream broadcasters like Sky Sports and TNT Sports continue to escalate, fans have sought out alternative methods to watch live football and other sports over the past few years.
These methods include the utilization of devices like Amazon Fire TV Sticks and Internet Protocol Television (IPTV), which offer television services and programs through broadband and related technologies.
However, broadcasters and football associations, such as the Premier League, have initiated crackdowns on providers of illegal streaming services, as well as individuals who choose to distribute such content to others.
In August, two brothers were handed a collective jail term of 11 years after being found guilty of conspiring to defraud between 2012 and 2019. They utilized IPTV to provide paid content at a cost of £200 per year.

Moreover, in October, it was reported by Greek outlet Skair.gr (via TorrentFreak) that a man was sentenced to eight years in prison and fined approximately £14,000 for establishing illegal IPTV streams.
Trading Standards has now issued a stern warning to viewers who access illegal streams.
A warning has been issued on their website regarding the risks associated with using illegal devices to access streaming content. These risks include the potential for malware, viruses, and spyware, as well as electrical safety hazards and connections to organized crime.
The post goes on to caution that those who engage in illegal streaming may face imprisonment, although the law will primarily target individuals and groups who profit from selling illegal content as part of a business.
According to the Digital Economy Act 2017, individuals can now be sentenced to up to ten years in prison for illegally streaming copyrighted content. However, it is more likely that the law will focus on those who are involved in the commercial distribution of illegal content.
An increasing number of publicans are purchasing IPTV systems, enabling them to broadcast live Premier League football matches and other sporting events without paying subscription fees. Landlords found guilty of illegally streaming sports events can be fined more than £20,000.