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Magic TV boxes are becoming increasingly popular in Perth with content being streamed from the internet such as Sky Sports and other paid subscription channels.
We highlighted this back in February 2016 when our inbox was flooded with questions regarding your consumer rights. We are almost in December and this has become a concern for many people after the boxes have became even more popular.
Many consumers will complain about the service or worry they may face prosecution knowingly you have purchased an illegal product.
What are Magic TV boxes?
This device is legal until you or the seller loads premium channels and movies without a licence from the broadcaster and Ofcom. In this particular case, most boxes are sold illegally and are publicly available. Here is a page we have found. (We recommend that you do not purchase these)
What are Fire Sticks?
These are USB sticks that can be plugged into your modern flat screen TV. This product is legally sold and are operated by Amazon. However, if you or the seller loads premium content onto the device without a licence from the broadcaster and Ofcom, it then becomes illegal.
The Federation Against Copyright Theft (FACT) says “When it comes to set-top boxes which stream content, the bottom line is that certain programmes and channels are only available through subscription pay services.
“If a device provides access to that content without a valid subscription from the recognised provider, then anyone using that device needs to be aware that they are accessing that content unlawfully.
“If viewers want to enjoy the pay TV options as offered by subscription providers in the UK, such as Sky, Virgin or BT, then the only way to do that legally is via a valid subscription from those providers.
“Our strong advice to the public is to steer clear of any service other than the recognised provider which appears to be offering access to these channels and programmes at a discounted cost.”
Under the Copyright Act, those convicted of supplying the equipment that bypass premium channels that require a subscription could face a 10-year jail sentence and unlimited fine.
It’s now easily monitored after the UK Parliament passed a legislation that gives authorities unprecedented access to our internet history. (Even if you clear it from your browser) This is known as the ‘Snooper’s Charter’.
While paying high prices for premium channels that seems a luxury, you are also keeping people in a job and you can live without the worry of the police knocking on your front door for theft.
You can hear about a recent court case by clicking here.
You can also report illegal services and products to the local Trading Standards at Perth and Kinross Council here.
