Going to illegal streaming sites does not save money, on the contrary… Behind the scenes, the risks involved can ultimately cost much more than a Netflix subscription. Here’s why.
It’s Sunday evening, and you had a clear idea of the film you wanted to watch, but, unpleasant surprise, it is not available on any paid platform… or at least, none on which you have a subscription. Faced with such a situation, many decide to turn to a simple, yet forbidden solution: free streaming services. The offer is both varied and very competitive: certain films are available as soon as they are released in the cinema. A totally illegal practice, because it does not respect the principles of copyright. Despite everything8.5 million French people visit illicit streaming sites every month, according to Arcom figures in 2023.
Of course, all users know that there are legal risks. It is generally a simple warning which does not lead to serious consequences, but it may happen that a repeat Internet user is exposed to a sentence of three years in prison and a fine of 300,000 euros, because the courts may consider him as an accomplice of the broadcaster. Although these cases are very rare, we often forget the other possible repercussions, much more serious and above all more frequent…
Viewing this content presents largely underestimated risks:Illegal streaming may seem like a quick way to save money, but it’s a false economy that can cost users thousands.”explains British inspector Emma Warbey – from the intellectual property crime unit – in an article in Daily Express. Indeed, one of the main risks lies in cybersecurity: these sites being illegal, they are absolutely not protected and are therefore a real gold mine for hackers.
In addition to viruses that can damage your connected devices, the danger is especially present in data theft. “It’s easy to think that you’re saving money by accessing illegal feeds, but in reality, criminals use them to steal your personal information and passwords. Their main goal is to gain access to your bank account”in turn warns Rob Shapland, ethical hacker with 16 years of experience in cybersecurity. The specialist indicates in particular that a simple connection to a streaming site, or the connection of an IPTV type box (low-cost subscription system, also illegal, allowing access to all pay channels) to your television is enough to give them access to your digital identity. According to a study by BeStreamWise, in the United Kingdom, 40% of streaming consumers have been victims of financial fraud: on average, the amount stolen is 1,680 pounds sterling, or more than 1,900 euros. Worse still, one in ten people were scammed out of more than 8,500 euros!
Of course, the phenomenon does not stop at the British borders: all Internet users are potentially affected, especially when we know that streaming sites are based almost everywhere in the world. It is entirely possible to find The idiots’ dinner on a Russian platform, for example. In short, the illusion of saving money by accessing illegal movies can actually cost much more than purchasing a legitimate subscription, both legally and financially.
