A man who used modified Amazon Firesticks to stream Premier League football matches illegally has been sentenced to three years and two months in prison. Michael Barrow, 38, operated the illicit MB Streams service, which had over 2,000 subscribers and generated more than £200,000.
Barrow pleaded guilty to three offences under the Fraud Act at Swansea Crown Court. He had previously been warned to stop his activities but continued to supply pre-loaded Firesticks and streaming services. To avoid detection, he asked customers to disguise bank transfers as payments for retro football kits.
The prosecution was brought by the Premier League with support from FACT and the TARIAN Regional Organised Crime Unit’s Economic Crime Team in southern Wales. Premier League Director of Legal – Enforcement, Stefan Sergot, said the sentence highlighted the severe consequences for those involved in illegal streaming, especially after ignoring clear warnings.
Sergot added that illegal streaming is often linked to wider criminal activity and can expose fans to fraud, malware, and identity theft. He emphasised that protecting broadcast rights is crucial for the Premier League’s financial support across the football pyramid.
Kieron Sharp, Chairman of FACT, stated that Barrow’s operation was deliberate and sustained, and that illegal streaming is not a victimless crime. He warned that those supplying modified devices or illegal IPTV services face serious criminal consequences.
