IPTV users who illegally stream sport sent stark warning as man handed four-year sentence

IPTV users who use the technology to illegally stream sport have been sent a fresh warning after a man was handed a four-year prison sentence in the UK.

Despite the risks of illegally streaming sport and the security threats to the individual, one in 10 Brits has admitted to using illicit means to watch sport – according to a YouGov poll conducted last year.

An increase in the use of Internet Protocol Television (IPTV) technology in recent years has helped to contribute to an upsurge in illegal streaming of sport, including the Premier League.

Sky, TNT Sports and other broadcasters are working with police forces across the UK to target those responsible for setting up the illegal services, with a number of convictions handed out this year.

Now, a man from County Derry in Northern Ireland has been given a lengthy sentence for his role in setting up an illegal streaming service.

Cormac McGuckin, 38, from The Meadows in Bellaghy was sentenced to four years, half to be served in prison and half on licence, as reported by the BBC.

Federation Against Copyright Theft (FACT) report that McGuckin pled guilty to charges including participating in a fraudulent business on dates between January 1, 2016 and June 18, 2020.

He also admitted possessing articles for use in fraud on June 18, 2020, and also pled guilty to charges of converting criminal property, possessing criminal property and transferring criminal property.

His wife, Maura McGuckin, 34, was also given a 12-month suspended sentence for having criminal property.

Cormac McGuckin is said to have made almost £500,000 from running the streaming service, although his wife denied knowing that it was illegal.

Speaking after sentencing, Detective Sergeant Robinson warned sports fans against using illegal streaming services, which are often accessed through jailbroken Amazon Fire Sticks.

There has been an increase in illegal streaming of the Premier League in recent years (Image: Getty)

"This is not a victimless crime as this type of operation has a direct impact on businesses and consumers and our message to anyone involved in this type of crime is that it will not be tolerated and, working with partner agencies, police will investigate," said Robinson.

"Users and subscribers of illegal services should also be aware that they too are committing an offence for which they can be identified and prosecuted.

"It is no surprise that those who provide illegal streaming have no concerns for your private information, including bank details. The software and devices used to stream the footage can be used to harvest personal data.

"That 'cheap subscription' could end up costing you an awful lot more."