Police target millions of UK households using 'dodgy fire sticks' in fresh crackdown

Police target millions of UK households using 'dodgy fire sticks' in fresh crackdownBrits using "dodgy fire sticks" to watch TV can be identified by their bank statements, police forces have warned, as they aim to tackle illegal streamingCommentsMoneyBradley Jolly Overnight News Editor01:08, 22 Apr 2026View 2 ImagesPolice have warned those using 'dodgy fire sticks' will be caught (Image: Getty Images)Brits watching TV using illegal fire sticks have been warned they will be caught — as police will trace their bank statements.‌Authorities understand around four million households access the latest shows and watch live sports illegally with "dodgy fire sticks". These small devices plug into the back or side of TVs — and can be hacked to unlock hundreds of premium channels, subscription services, the latest films and live Premier League football.‌But police are confident they will tackle some of those households with the latest crackdown, which involves the analysis of bank statements. Acting Detective Chief Inspector Alethea Fowler, of the Tarian Regional Organised Crime Unit in southern Wales, said: "Criminals rarely stop at just one income stream, and by purchasing illicit goods — such as an illegal streaming service fire stick — you are enabling further forms of criminality, often involving exploitation and harm."‌Last month, online bank Revolut was ordered to hand over names and addresses of more than 300 "dodgy box" users to Sky by the Irish High Court after money was transferred to illegal streaming service provider David Dunbar, of County Wexford in the Republic of Ireland.READ MORE: Netflix users face £1,000 fine this weekend for not following UK ruleREAD MORE: Eight new UK areas targeted by police in fresh 'dodgy fire stick' crackdownView 2 ImagesPolice have launched a crackdown(Image: Getty)‌Police are said to be drawing up lists of users and their addresses, the Daily Mail reports. They ha...