Irish dodgy box users face higher scam risks

A recent survey has highlighted risks associated with using "dodgy boxes" for illegal streaming in Ireland. These devices allow users to access sports and movies without paying. The survey found that one in five users have faced scams or fraud, resulting in losses up to six times higher compared to those who don't use such devices. Conducted by Sapio Research for the group BeStreamWise, the study polled 500 Irish adults. It reported that more than two in five dodgy box users still recommend the devices to others. Half of those surveyed admitted to using them, while the other half did not. Last year, a separate survey indicated that one in five Irish homes owned a dodgy box, despite it being illegal under Irish law. Violators may face fines or jail time, but enforcement usually targets commercial operators rather than individual users. Recently, legal actions were taken against 13 individuals involved in illegal streaming. Some cases highlighted include a man who received a 16-month jail sentence for profiting from a dodgy box operation and another who was sentenced to four years for running an illegal streaming service. Liz Bales, CEO of the Irish Industry Trust, warned that illegal streaming poses risks not only to the creative industry but also to viewers who may fall victim to scams. She stressed the importance of using legal streaming methods to protect audiences and support the entertainment industry.