Overview
- Police say Operation Eider will use bank and payment records to identify people using modified streaming devices for paid TV and live sport.
- Officials estimate roughly four million UK households access channels and matches through these illicit setups.
- The Federation Against Copyright Theft is coordinating with forces nationwide, with steps that include cease‑and‑desist letters, doorstep visits and full criminal prosecutions.
- Courts are already backing data requests, shown by an Irish High Court order in March that made Revolut give Sky details for more than 300 users tied to alleged seller David Dunbar.
- Authorities stress the gadgets are legal hardware that can be altered for illegal access, and they warn of fines or prison with the toughest penalties aimed at sellers and distributors.