A major crackdown on shops and resellers selling illegal TV streaming devices, commonly known as 'dodgy firesticks', has been carried out across Ireland just weeks before Christmas.
The operation, led by the Federation Against Copyright Theft (FACT) in partnership with Sky, targeted businesses allegedly selling subscriptions, pre-configured devices, or acting as referral points for illegal streaming services.
Full List of Counties Targeted
In this coordinated action, legal notices were delivered to a total of 15 shops and resellers spread across nine different counties.
The counties where the crackdown took place are:
- Kerry
- Louth
- Laois
- Mayo
- Donegal
- Kilkenny
- Wexford
- Meath
- Cavan
Of the 15 visits, eleven were conducted directly by FACT investigators, with the remaining four carried out by Sky's own legal representatives.
A Shift in Enforcement Strategy
This operation marks a significant shift in strategy for anti-piracy enforcement. It is the first time enforcement teams have focused directly on retail outlets.
The move recognises that physical shops are a crucial gateway for consumers being drawn into the world of illegal streaming. Disrupting this activity at street level is now seen as key to protecting the public.
All the targeted outlets have been given a strict deadline to cease their illegal activities or face further legal action. A FACT spokesperson confirmed that the vast majority have already responded to the legal notices and agreed to stop.
Warnings from Industry Leaders
Kieron Sharp, CEO of FACT, issued a stern warning: "This operation shows that we are actively targeting every link in the illegal streaming supply chain. When shop owners sell illegal streaming devices, subscriptions or act as referral points to providers, they are supporting criminal organisations and generating criminal profits."
JD Buckley, CEO of Sky Ireland, highlighted the risks to consumers: "Illegal streaming puts consumers at real risk of online harms including fraud and identity theft while draining money away from the creative industries that invest in the shows and sports people love."
He added that Sky is determined to protect its customers and ensure the company can continue producing world-class content, vowing that anyone profiting from piracy will be found and stopped.
The crackdown comes ahead of the busy Christmas period, which traditionally features a packed schedule of premium sports and highly anticipated television specials, a time when demand for such illegal services often peaks.
