Users of Kodi and IPTV boxes in the UK now see police officers at their door, handing them over warnings or even cease and desist notices if they are believed to be suppliers of illegal streams. This unprecedented measure sends a clear message to these people that they have been identified and have no other choice but to comply now. These visits occur in collaboration between ERSOU police officers and FACT (Federation Against Copyright Theft), who have performed the relevant investigation.
As FACT’s Chief Executive, Kieron Sharp, stated:
FACT promises to continue to monitor those who received written warnings and cease and desist notices, and if they don’t give up on piracy, they will face further legal action. As for ERSOU Police, they see this as a very positive initiative that will disrupt the funding of criminal circles and protect communities from various risks. The police also remind IPTV users of previous arrests and sentences in its press release, making it clear that pirating content can result in harsh penalties like imprisonment.
Paul Sanders, coordinator at ERSOU Police, said:
Two weeks ago, a 56-year-old-man who was identified by FACT eventually got arrested by the West Mercia Police, had his equipment seized, and is now facing several criminal offense charges. It is evident that the collaboration between FACT and the law enforcement authorities in the UK has passed to a higher level, actively tracking down and arresting pirate site operators.