Around half a million households in the UK could find themselves unable to watch premium TV after a recent block.
It comes as UK police have shut down several providers who were illegally streaming content that viewers would typically have to pay for. As reported by The Mirror, police operations spread across the UK saw four people arrested and the seizure of laptops and phones.
That means viewers who use illegal third-party services to access Sky content - without paying for the service - could see their viewing cut off. What's more, officials say illegal streaming services make users vulnerable to data theft, fraud and malware.
More than 200 'cease and desist' notices were also delivered to individuals suspected of running illegal streaming services around the country.
Police Intellectual Property Crime Unit (PIPCU) Detective Chief Inspector Gary Robinson, added: "Organised criminal groups often view the distribution of illegal streaming services as a low-risk, high-reward crime which can be used to fund other serious forms of criminal activity. At the same time, it can expose end users to the risks of data theft, fraud and malware.
"We hope that this period of action sends a clear message; PIPCU will continue to work with partners across law enforcement and the industry to take action against those who provide illegal streaming services and protect consumers against the risks associated with using them."
Matt Hibbert, Director of Anti-Piracy at Sky, said: "This coordinated effort by police and partners which saw action spanning the UK has made a significant impact against individuals involved in serious organised crime.
"More and more effective action is being taken against the criminals behind big piracy operations and we thank PIPCU and all the police forces involved.
"We will continue to support these efforts to shut down these pirate networks and help protect consumers."
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