Britons seeking to cut costs on TV subscriptions are being warned that using a modified Amazon Fire Stick could provide criminals with a direct line to their savings and personal data. These 'jailbroken' or 'modded' devices, often sold online for around £20, are being used to install malicious software that can steal bank details and passwords.
The Scale of the Problem
A recent survey from the UK initiative BeStreamWise has revealed the alarming consequences of this trend. The data shows that two out of every five people who use illegal streaming services have fallen victim to fraud. On average, each victim lost close to £1,700 as a direct result.
DCI Emma Warbey from the City of London Police's intellectual property crime unit (PIPCU) stated, "Illegal streaming might look like a quick way to save money, but it's a false economy that can end up costing people thousands. This is a crime that diverts funds away from the entertainment industries. At the same time, it exposes end-users to the risks of data theft, cybercrime, and fraud."
How the Scam Operates
These compromised devices are typically advertised on social media and illegal streaming sites, promising free access to premium TV shows, sports, and films. The danger begins the moment the stick is plugged into a laptop or television.
According to Rob Shapland, an ethical hacker at Cyonic Cyber, "Alongside the stream of TV or sports, it will also install some malware on to your computer and give the criminal direct access to your computer so they could use it as if they were sitting there. Or they can install keyloggers which will record any password you are typing."
He emphasises that users are "essentially volunteering to have your laptop hacked in many cases." The sticks often come with instructions designed to bypass virus detectors, compounding the risk. Once connected to a home wifi network, the device can potentially access other connected devices, such as laptops. Some even request a small monthly subscription, handing criminals your credit card details directly.
Protecting Yourself from Fraud
If you discover you are using an illegal streaming device, you should take immediate action to secure your digital life. The first step is to remove the device from all your gadgets.
Next, change the passwords on all critical sites and apps, especially for banking, investments, pensions, and payment services like PayPal. Enabling multifactor authentication adds a crucial extra layer of security. You should also reverse any changes made to your anti-virus software and run a comprehensive virus scan on your laptop.
If you believe you have been defrauded, it is likely the damage occurred when the stick was first used. In the UK, you should contact Action Fraud, the national fraud reporting centre, and inform your bank immediately.
Amazon has confirmed that individuals have been convicted for selling these modded devices and that the company will continue to collaborate with authorities to halt their distribution. A company spokesperson affirmed, "Piracy is illegal, and customers should not buy these devices."
