Warning sent to fans who illegally stream Premier League football as viewers 'intercepted' before match

A stern warning has been sent to fans who illegally stream the Premier League as viewers were 'intercepted' before last weekend's North London derby.

A new anti-piracy scheme was put in place to target Premier League fans ahead of Tottenham vs. Arsenal, which was broadcasted live on Sky Sports.

BeStreamWise 'intercepted' people searching for an illegal stream for the game in the hopes of protecting them from 'the dangers of digital piracy'.

BeStreamWise is a cross-body initiative set up by several organisations to counter illegal streaming, with its partners including the Federation Against Copyright Theft (FACT), the Intellectual Property Office and Crimestoppers UK.

Not to mention the Premier League, as well as the BBC, Sky and ITV.

A warning has been sent to fans who illegally stream the Premier League. Image: Getty

On illegal streaming, CEO of FACT Kieron Sharp said: "Illegal streaming not only undermines the hard work of content creators and rights holders but also exposes viewers to significant risks such as identity theft, fraud, and malware.

"By choosing legal streaming options, fans can show their true support for their team. Through this innovative campaign, BeStreamWise aims to protect fans and educate them on the dangers of digital piracy. We want to ensure that everyone can enjoy the excitement of the Spurs vs Arsenal match safely and legally."

Group Director of Anti-Piracy at Sky Matt Hibbert added: "Illegal streaming poses a serious threat and can expose consumers to identity theft, fraud, and malicious software. This campaign protects fans by redirecting them away from malicious streaming sites, highlighting the dangers of clicking unknown links and educating consumers on the risks involved in digital piracy.

"Through our collaboration with BeStreamWise, we want to ensure that football fans continue to enjoy the sport they love without compromising their personal security."

Deputy Director of Enforcement at The Intellectual Property Office's Miles Rees commented: "Piracy is anything but a victimless crime. It has clear links to other harmful activities and materials online, actively sustaining serious and organised crime networks while diverting funds away from the sporting occasions we all enjoy.

"The UK Intellectual Property Office is pleased to support this innovative campaign, which takes an original approach to reminding sports fans of the real risks to themselves and their families every time they try to access pirated content. We continue to work with our partners to raise awareness of these dangers, helping disrupt criminal networks and empowering consumers to make informed choices."