Using a “Dodgy” Fire Stick? Experts Warn of Hidden Dangers

Nowadays, you may have heard that Dodge fire sticks save money while giving access to unlimited content. I believed the same until I researched and learned what experts are saying. The reality was a shocker for me (honestly, deep down I knew what was coming). According to the experts, these devices are not cheap shortcuts because they bring loads of threats and can even lead to legal trouble. So, before you proceed to bring one for yourself, just check out the warning signs that you should not miss. 

What “Dodgy” Fire Stick Users Should Know? 

People using Dodgy TV fire sticks/boxes must note that these are “modified streaming devices” that use third-party software to unlock the exclusive content from platforms like Sky, TNT Sports, Netflix, and Disney+. And yes, all of these for “free”. 

Since these practices are illegal, it comes with lots of threats that could involve police and even legal actions if anyone is found using one. Alongside police authorities, renowned groups like Crimestoppers and FACT (Federation Against Copyright Theft) suggested that using these illegal devices is a serious crime. 

Possible Dangers : Expert’s Analysis

Those who enjoy premium content using the Dodgy fire sticks are potentially prone to prosecutions, including under Section 11 of the Fraud Act 2006. Keeping this aside, the primary risks for the dodgy streaming device users are :

• Legal threats : Sellers are the primary targets for legal consequences, but users can get into more trouble. 
• Exposure to explicit content : These apps aren't protected, which means the unavailability of parental controls. In such cases, if kids are using these devices, unsuitable content can pop up anytime while streaming. 
• Malware issues : Dodgy sticks may use unofficial apps that can unknowingly track you and compromise your personal data. 

On this matter, BeStreamWise said, 

1 in 3 (32%) people who illegally stream in the UK say they, or someone they know, have been a victim of fraud, scams, or identity theft as a result.

Penalties of Using “Dodgy” Fire Sticks

Alongside compromising personal data and opening gates for malware, using a dodgy device can result in fines and even jail. If a person was found to be guilty of a similar kind of offence could be fined or face a jail sentence for upto five years.

What to Do For Protection? 

The simplest method you can take is to avoid using these cheap and too-good-to-be-true Dodgy devices. Instead, you should count on official alternatives like Google TV Streamer, Walmart Onn 4K Pro/Google TV, NVIDIA Shield TV Pro, and Roku Streaming Stick 4K. If you have already used a phishing software, like the Dodgy fire stick, you should run a quick malware or complete system scan to detect threats or disconnect from the Internet to prevent further data leaks. 

Conclusion

Since the threats of a dodgy fire stick are deadly, it is best to consider official platforms, like NVIDIA Shield TV Pro, for the best in-class performance and subscription plans. If you are cost-conscious, Walmart Onn 4K Pro/Google TV remains a good choice to enjoy your favourite shows under budget.