Illegal AddOn's and movie streaming crackdown by CrimeStoppers UK

KODI USERS are being warned of the implications of illegally watching copyrighted content, in an extensive new campaign by CrimeStoppers which also highlights the various dangers with these popular addons.

Kodi software is not illegal, however, this last year has seen their use soar throughout the UK with numerous people utilising illegal third-party add-ons that provide free access to pirated content.

This isn't just for TV shows or movies, as some of the biggest sporting events have also been targeted allowing users to watch for completely free.

But as we head into 2018, UK charity CrimeStoppers has announced a new campaign released a fresh warning this week highlighting the dangers of third-party Kodi addons and the various risks associated with them.

That's on top of the fact that their use is illegal and can lead to potential fines and convictions.

“Advances in technology have allowed us to enjoy on-screen entertainment in more ways than ever before, with ever-increasing amounts of exciting and original content,” the CrimeStoppers campaign begins.

“However, some people are avoiding paying for this content by using modified streaming hardware devices, like a set-top box or stick, in conjunction with software such as illegal apps or add-ons, or illegal mobile apps which allow them to watch new movie releases, TV that hasn’t yet aired, and subscription sports channels for free.”

"From movies that have not been released yet in the UK, TV programmes that haven’t aired yet or that are only being shown on subscription channels, to pay-per-view offerings, and subscription sports channels.

"If other people pay for the content you are watching for free, then you are watching illegally.

However, the campaign by CrimeStoppers is intended to do more than warn against their use because of the legality.

"Illegal streams are a safety and security risk. When subscribing to content you could be giving real criminals your personal information; risking identity theft, your bank account or your home network being hacked, and your online passwords being compromised.

"Also, illegal streaming devices have failed a number of both UK and EU safety checks and standards - safety testing has shown that most of the components that make up these boxes would not pass EU safety regulations, meaning they could put you/your family at risk."

Remarkably and probably something that's not been mentioned all that much in past warnings this year, CrimeStoppers also highlighted that you could be funding organised crime

"You may think you’re getting a bargain if you buy a box or stick that is fully-loaded with Kodi software and illegal apps or add-ons, or if you subscribe to a service that offers them through your laptop or mobile device.

"However, you could also be helping to fund organised crime and bringing it into your community."

Chief Constable Giles York, National Police lead for Intellectual Property also added:

“To the consumer Illegal Streaming Devices (ISDs) might appear to be a good thing, but with clear links to organised crime where does your money actually go?

"There have been a number of convictions now and work is currently ongoing to identify those organised groups in the UK making huge profits and avoiding tax by supplying poor quality and unsafe devices to consumers.

"Each individual that is willing to accept that ‘it’s OK to get access to services without paying’ undermines the creative industries of the UK and there could come a time when those losses mean catastrophic results to the companies concerned and individuals employed by those industries.

"Would you book a taxi ride and then expect not to pay?”