New research reveals that Britons using illicit streaming devices, commonly known as 'dodgy' Amazon Fire sticks, are facing severe financial consequences, with two in five users reporting they have been hacked.
The High Cost of Cheap Streams
An expert has issued a stark warning, stating that individuals who purchase these modified devices are effectively 'doing cybercriminals' jobs for them'. The study shows that while users believe they are saving a modest £13.38 per month by avoiding official subscriptions, they are risking thousands of pounds.
According to Rob Shapland, an ethical hacker with 16 years of experience in cyber security, these fake Fire sticks are a gateway for criminals to steal sensitive information. 'By buying one of these devices you risk downloading malware onto your phone or laptop,' Shapland told Metro. He emphasised that users are placing their trust in criminals with access to their credit card details and passwords.
Staggering Financial Losses Revealed
The research, conducted by the cross-industry initiative BeStreamWise, found that of the 40% of users who fell victim to financial fraud in the past year, the average amount stolen was £1,680. This figure represents more than half of the average UK monthly gross salary.
Even more alarming, one in ten victims reported losses exceeding £7,500. When compared to the perceived annual savings of around £160, the data shows that the average potential loss is a staggering 950% higher than the amount saved.
How Cybercriminals Target Victims
Rob Shapland outlined five common methods used by hackers to defraud victims, which every consumer should be aware of:
- Phishing: Criminals impersonate legitimate sources like banks or delivery services via email, tricking users into clicking fake links.
- Phone Calls: Scammers call pretending to be from your bank and directly ask for credit card information.
- Text Scams: Similar to phishing, but conducted through SMS messages containing malicious links.
- AI and Deepfake Voices: Advanced technology is used to impersonate celebrities or trusted figures to solicit money or information.
- Malicious Apps: Entering payment details into fraudulent applications hands your data directly to unscrupulous people.
Shapland did not mince words, stating that illegal streamers are 'literally choosing to download a virus' and that the moment you connect a modified device to your TV, 'you've done all the hard work for them.'
The warning comes amid a nationwide crackdown on these illicit devices. One victim, David, shared his experience after his bank details were stolen twice, including an attempt to purchase a speedboat in his name. 'It's not just your money at stake, you're playing into the hands of real criminals,' he said.
