UEFA has praised a groundbreaking anti-piracy operation that dismantled a record number of illegal streaming platforms and IPTV services, leading to 11 arrests.
The popularity of IPTV, modified Fire Sticks, and similar devices has surged in recent years due to the rising costs of official subscriptions from providers like Sky Sports and TNT Sports.
These technologies enable users to stream content illegally via broadband connections. However, organizations such as the Premier League have collaborated with authorities to intensify their crackdown on piracy.
Recently, “Operation Kratos” successfully disrupted a network of illegal streaming services that catered to over 22 million users.
The operation, conducted last summer during major sporting events like Euro 2024, involved law enforcement agencies from both EU Member States and non-EU countries. UEFA actively participated, contributing critical information on illegal streams of its competitions through its advanced content protection program.
As a result, authorities carried out 112 searches and seizures of equipment, identified 102 suspects, and made 11 arrests.
A UEFA spokesperson commented on the success of the operation, stating:
“UEFA welcomes and supports this unprecedented operation, which neutralized a record number of illegal streaming platforms and IPTV services. We extend our gratitude to all stakeholders for their cooperation and dedication in combating digital piracy and organized crime.”
The spokesperson further emphasized the importance of media rights revenue, saying:
“Media rights revenue is crucial for both professional and grassroots football development across Europe. Fighting online piracy remains a top priority for UEFA, as it threatens the financial foundations of the European football ecosystem.”
In November, a 29-year-old man from Liverpool was sentenced to prison for using Fire Sticks to access illicit streams.
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