A Scottish tech company is behind a push to leave IPTV illegal streamers locked out ahead of the return of the English Premier League.
Vistalworks have developed a cutting-edge software tool that warns users of the high risk dangers of signing up to reduced price services that provide live streams and video on demand.
The latest deterrent comes after The Intellectual Property Office (IPO) recently shared its annual crime and enforcement report that the richest league in the world blocked 210,000 live streams and over 360,000 clips of matches in the 2018/19 season.
Fans from all across the world flock to the Premier League to watch big name teams such as Manchester United, Arsenal and Liverpool.
And it's hoped the new pop-up tool will make fans looking for a quick fix have second thoughts over illicit links to watch the big match.
Vistalworks chief executive Vicky Brock said: “Lockdown has led to a rise in people accessing illicit IPTV, and we expect to see that increase further with the return of English Premier League football.
“Our checker alerts people using sites like eBay to search for cut-price streaming products that what they’re looking at is both dangerous and illegal.
“IPTV sales can end up with consumers’ sensitive information being placed in the wrong hands, which in turn can lead to identity theft and fraud.
“And piracy is not a victimless crime – by purchasing these illegal services people aren’t just putting themselves at risk, they’re potentially bankrolling the criminal lifestyle of major international gangs.”
And that news has been welcomed by Trading Standards Scotland chief officer Fiona Richardson ahead of the new season.
“Tackling illicit streaming continues to be a priority issue for Trading Standards Scotland.
“It is currently so prolific that it is posing a significant risk to the business interests of legitimate broadcasters.
“As a consequence of the COVID-19 lockdown, there has been a notable rise in social media pop-up adverts for illicit streaming devices and services, which are one of the main sources of malicious software and can allow criminals to access personal and financial information on users’ computers.”
