Illegal streaming has seen a significant rise in recent years, driven by financial pressures on UK households. Many have turned to unauthorized platforms that offer discounted access to premium content, as a response to the ongoing cost-of-living crisis.
However, the spotlight remains on illegal streaming, as one popular service, which provided access to Sky channels among other content, has been permanently shut down. This has left subscribers who paid for the service at a loss.
Nishan Silva, a 34-year-old from Hitchin, has been sentenced to three years in jail for his involvement in operating an illicit IPTV service known as Andy UTV and Ultimate TV Service. Silva, formerly an accountant, was responsible for managing the illegal subscription-based platform.
Silva pleaded guilty to charges related to copyright infringement and illicit financial activities at the Inner London Crown Court on October 2. The platform run by Silva had a substantial following and is estimated to have generated hundreds of thousands of pounds in revenue.
Detective Constable Daryl Fryatt from the Police Intellectual Property Crime Unit described Silva as an intelligent accountant who exploited his skills and position for criminal activities. He emphasized that PIPCU will continue to pursue individuals profiting from illegal streaming to safeguard the entertainment industry’s revenue and protect users from data theft and fraud risks.
Sky’s Group Director of Anti-Piracy, Matt Hibbert, commended PIPCU for their efforts in prosecuting the case, highlighting the seriousness with which such crimes are treated. Sky remains dedicated to combatting content theft and safeguarding consumers from the dangers associated with illegal streaming.
It is crucial to remember the risks associated with illegal streaming, including exposure to malicious software and inappropriate content.