Fire TV Stick users get new warning that may mean the end of streaming Sky for free

A new alert has been issued to homes streaming premium TV - such as Sky and TNT Sports for free - and it could put many off this popular practice for good. It's no secret that millions of us have now switched away from official platforms and moved to cheaper online streaming instead. This way of tuning into live sports and blockbuster movies has boomed in popularity with many using so-called 'dodgy' without paying the usual high subscription fees.

With it saving homes hundreds of pounds a year, it's not surprising so many people have switched, but a new warning might just be enough to put some off for good.

The team at BeStreamWise has joined forces with security experts at McAfee to reveal some of the dangers of streaming illegally, which makes for some scary reading.

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Those using 'jailbroken' gadgets to get their fix of nightly entertainment can find themselves exposed to hidden malware, explicit pop-up adverts, and even handing their payment details over to cyber criminals. Even when people think they are protected by anti-virus software, they can still face major issues.

“From malware hidden in ads to sophisticated scams promising free content, many illegal streaming sites expose people to threats that go far beyond what an anti-virus tool can handle," explained Vonny Gamot, Head of EMEA at online protection company, McAfee "That’s why it’s important to stay informed about the latest online threats and best practices, to better protect your online privacy, identity and money."

Along with warning users about staying safe, BeStreamWise and McAfee also say that there are plenty of myths about online streaming that simply aren't true.

These include VPNs offering protecting from online piracy scams and buying a dodgy stick from a friend being less risky.

"57% of illegal streamers believe using a VPN reduces the risk of negative consequences associated with online piracy," the experts explained.

"However, while VPNs can help secure your data in transit, they cannot protect you from giving out personal information on a malicious site, getting infected with malware and viruses, or guarantee complete anonymity.

"Over a third (34%) of illegal streamers doubt the dodgy box or stick they use is risky because they got it through someone they know. Regardless of who you purchase these from, jailbroken devices (which allow users to watch copyrighted content for free) unlock access to third-party and unverified which open the doors to harmful content, data breaches and data tracking."

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Other myths busted in the latest warning include the belief that illegal streaming doesn’t have any serious negative consequences and a dodgy box has the same level of security as a regular pay TV provider.

"More than half of Brits (53%) think that illegally streaming content is unlikely to have serious consequences such as financial loss or personal info being shared with others without their permission," the team added.

"However, even though you may be paying a monetary fee for a jailbroken device, it is important to remember it is not a legitimate service and the act of ‘purchasing’ a subscription will involve sharing your financial information and funding organised criminal networks."

Of course, getting access to premium telly for a fraction of the usual cost sound exciting, just be aware that it comes with plenty of risks.