KODI boxes have become a popular way of watching TV by allowing users to live-stream content from apps and on-demand services.
But are they legal and will you get fined for using details? Here is everything you’ll need to know…
Kodi Boxes can stream content through almost any platform
Kodi Boxes can stream content through almost any platformCredit: codetvbox.com
What is Kodi and what are Kodi boxes?
Kodi, formerly known as XBMC, is a free and open-source media player app for playing videos, music, games, and other content.
It’s essentially a device that brings all of your digital content together and enables you to then share it across multiple devices.
A Kodi box enables you to stream content to any device in your home.
Advertised for its Plug and Play capability, a Kodi box is a set-top box or HDMI stick with the software installed on it.
They are not TV boxes but are apps that open up streaming devices which are unavailable on Google App or Amazon app stores.
It allows people to stream shows and watch them on any platform including a computer, smartphone, tablet or set-top box.
But some boxes are being modified to access paid content channels using third-party plug-ins, illegally allowing people to watch the shows without paying.
Are Kodi boxes legal in the UK?
Yes, Kodi boxes are legal. Users are able to buy a box and watch free content.
But it becomes illegal when a box is used to stream subscription channels for free.
It is also illegal to buy or sell these modified devices which have become known as “fully-loaded” - a term that describes how the software has been altered to allow access to subscription-only channels.
That means anyone selling a box which is intended to be used to infringe copyright will be treated as if they have infringed copyright themselves, and could be put behind bars.
The government has issued a strong warning to people using Kodi boxes and streaming sites to watch pirated films, and KODI fans have been warned that they are being closely watched by a law firm.
Officials are keen to squash any confusion, announcing in July that there should be no doubt when it came to streaming.
Ros Lynch, copyright and IP enforcement director at the Intellectual Property Office, said: “Content creators deserve to be paid for their work – it is not a grey area.
“This government takes IP infringement extremely seriously and we are working with our industry partners and law enforcement to tackle this emerging threat.”
The software itself isn’t illegal but it’s against the law to buy a Kodi box that has already been loaded with third-party add-ons
The software itself isn’t illegal but it’s against the law to buy a Kodi box that has already been loaded with third-party add-onsCredit: codetvbox.com
What is the penalty for using Kodi boxes illegally?
There has been a piracy crackdown over the last two years with fines in excess of £10,000 having been dished out to people using the box illegally.
While there were already penalties for those selling on Kodi boxes pre-loaded with third-party plug-ins, those found to be breaking the law now face 10 years behind bars - up from two years.
On December 17 we reported that thousands of TV pirates would receive a letter from police warning them that they are being watched by the authorities.
Those who continue to use streaming devices to steal premium channels like Sky Sports illegally face jail time, the message states.
More than 7,000 letters will be sent out this week to suspected users of streaming tech such as Kodi boxes, Chronicle Live reports.
Those who ignore the letter, sent by Lancashire Constabulary’s Cyber Crime Unit, could face up to five years in prison.
