Get all your news in one place.
100’s of premium titles.
One app.
Start reading
Daily Record
Daily Record
Science
David Snelling & Jacob Rawley

Amazon Fire TV Stick warning as tech giant issues serious alert to users

People who own Amazon's Fire TV Stick have been issued a warning as misuse of the handy device could lead to "damage" or "loss of data".

A Fire Stick allows instant access to services such as Netflix, Prime Video and Disney+ - however it can also be adapted to side-load unofficial apps that aren't on Amazon's store. Some of these non-official apps can be used to access illegal streaming.

Amazon appears to be cracking down on these dodgy sites as AFTnews have spotted a warning message that pops up when users try to download unofficial apps, reports the Express.

A screenshot posted by AFTnews shows the message which reads, "WARNING: When you use applications from unknown sources, your TV and personal data are less secure and there is a risk of unexpected behaviour.

"You agree that you are solely responsible for any damage to your device or loss of data that may result from using these applications."

If you alter your device you may be 'solely responsible' for any damage (Michael Short/Bloomberg via Getty Images)

Amazon isn't stopping access to unofficial apps but the alert should be taken seriously, as they could open the door to data-stealing malware.

Using dodgy sites could also lead to adult content popping up on TVs which will be worrying for those with young children in the house.

This comes after recent research, which analysed 50 popular illegal streaming sites, found that all contained malicious content.

And over 40 percent of the sites that were analysed did not have a security certificate which means they probably aren't safe to visit.

Don't miss the latest news from around Scotland and beyond - Sign up to our daily newsletter here .

READ NEXT:

Sign up to read this article
Read news from 100’s of titles, curated specifically for you.
Already a member? Sign in here
Related Stories
Top stories on inkl right now
One subscription that gives you access to news from hundreds of sites
Already a member? Sign in here
Our Picks
Fourteen days free
Download the app
One app. One membership.
100+ trusted global sources.