15 ‘Dodgy Box’ Operators Face Legal Action in Major Crackdown

UPDATE: In a significant enforcement operation, 15 retailers across nine counties in Ireland have received legal notices for their involvement in selling illegal streaming services, known as “dodgy boxes.” The Federation Against Copyright Theft (FACT), in collaboration with Sky Ireland, executed this crackdown to combat the rising tide of illegal streaming.

The operation targeted shops in Kerry, Louth, Laois, Mayo, Donegal, Kilkenny, Wexford, Meath, and Cavan. Investigators found that these outlets were not only selling illegal subscriptions but also providing devices configured to access unlawful content. This marks a pivotal moment as FACT focuses directly on retail locations, recognizing their role as a major entry point for consumers into illegal streaming.

According to FACT, the majority of the targeted retailers have already agreed to cease these activities after being served with the legal notices. “This operation shows that we are actively targeting every link in the illegal streaming supply chain,” stated Kieron Sharp, Chairman of FACT. He emphasized that selling illegal devices supports criminal organizations and undermines creative industries.

This crackdown follows a series of successful actions against illegal streaming in Ireland. In a notable case last month, a man from Wexford was ordered to pay €480,000 in damages to Sky and received a permanent injunction against any future involvement in IPTV services. Since March 2023, nearly 70 illegal services have been shut down, effectively disrupting tens of thousands of unauthorized streams.

JD Buckley, CEO of Sky Ireland, highlighted the risks posed to consumers, including potential fraud and identity theft, stating, “At Sky, we’re determined to protect our customers and ensure we continue producing world-class content. Anyone profiting from piracy will be found and stopped.”

As this operation unfolds, both FACT and Sky are committed to continuing their efforts to dismantle illegal streaming networks. The public is urged to stay informed about the dangers of illegal streaming and to report any suspicious activities.

Stay tuned for further updates on this developing story as authorities work to enhance legal protections against piracy in Ireland.