Man arrested in illegal online streaming crackdown

A 51-year-old man was held after a warrant was executed at a property in Widnes

A man has been arrested and several electronic devices seized along with crypto-currency as part of an investigation into illegal online streaming services.

It followed the execution of a warrant at an address in Widnes, Cheshire Police said.

The force said computers, phones, and digital satellite television boxes were confiscated as well as cash and cocaine.

A 51-year-old man was held on suspicion of fraud offences, possession of criminal property and possession of Class A drugs. He has since been released under investigation pending further enquiries.

Computers, phones, and digital satellite television boxes were seized in the raid

Det Con Hannah Clement said: "While many people think that illegal streaming is a victimless crime, that is simply not the case.

"It causes an enormous loss to the entertainment industry and is also unfair that millions of people work hard to afford their subscription-only TV services while others cheat the system.

"In addition, by using illegal streaming services, you also increase the risk of receiving malicious software, which gives criminals access to your network and can compromise your personal data."

She added she hoped the warrant "acts as a warning to those who knowingly commit or facilitate online copyright infringement".