Anti-Piracy Crackdown Targets 15 Shops across Nine Counties in 'Dodgy Box' Sweep
FACT targets 15 shops in an Irish ‘dodgy box’ sweep; legal notices served and more actions expected.
Fifteen retail outlets have been served legal notices in a nationwide operation targeting businesses suspected of selling illegal streaming services, with investigators focusing on phone repair shops and electronics stores across Ireland.
The Federation Against Copyright Theft (FACT) confirmed that legal notices were delivered to outlets in Kerry, Kilkenny, Laois, Louth, Mayo, Meath and three other counties as part of the latest enforcement action against illegal IPTV services.
The operation targeted businesses suspected of selling subscriptions to illicit streaming services, supplying pre-configured devices, or connecting customers to illegal resellers. FACT reports that the vast majority of those served notices have agreed to cease the activity immediately.
Kieron Sharp, Chairman of FACT, said:
"Illegal IPTV providers are breaking the law and putting consumers at real risk of malware, data loss and identity theft."
The latest action follows similar enforcement rounds earlier this year. In March 2025, 13 operators received legal notices leading to service shutdowns and settlements, whilst February saw another wave of notices served to 'dodgy box' providers across multiple counties.
Cork has featured in previous FACT operations this year, though today's news release has not specifically identified any Cork premises among the 15 outlets targeted.
The enforcement comes amid ongoing regulatory oversight, with Ireland's Data Protection Commission engaging with Sky about its anti-piracy measures to ensure compliance with Irish and EU data protection law.
FACT's notices instruct recipients to immediately stop illegal streaming activities or risk criminal prosecution. The organisation emphasises that consumers using illegal streams face significant cybersecurity risks, including malware infections and potential identity theft.
The BeStreamWise campaign, supported by broadcasters and anti-piracy bodies, provides guidance on the risks of illegal streaming and directs users to legitimate viewing options.
Investigators allege that some targeted outlets were actively facilitating access to premium content without proper licensing, potentially exposing customers to both legal risks and cybersecurity threats.
The nationwide sweep represents the latest escalation in efforts to tackle illegal streaming services at street level, moving beyond online enforcement to target physical retail premises.
