The ethically murkynotion of watching the world's most captivating sport online for free seems almost too good to be true (and to avoid)for many avid spectators. However, due to ahigh court ruling granting permission to broadcasters to 'block'illegal streams, the guilty pleasurecould well become an thrill of the past.
The revelation, reported bythe Sun, explains that on Monday the high court gave power to BT, Sky, TalkTalk and Virgin Media to block the illegal broadcasting of Premier League footballfrom a device called 'Kodi Box.'
The relatively cheap technology, which could be purchased for as little as £50, allowed British viewers to stream films, TV shows and live 'pay to view' sports coverage free of charge. The device saved money for the viewer, whilst cutting profits out of legitimate TV broadcasts.
The box itself is legal, however the device also contradicts theCopyright, Designs and Patent Act 1988 when streaming live sport - which is very much a criminal offence.
A number of British individuals have consequently been arrested and convicted for selling the item with pre-loaded features, which allow the streaming of pirated content.
A spokesman of the high court insisted the order meant they could target specific TV pirates in a more "precise manner."
He also added:For the first time this will enable the Premier League to disrupt and prevent the illegal streaming of our matches via IPTV, so-called Kodi, boxes.�
The modern game is a big money business, with the majorityof top flight football clubs revenue coming from television rights. For those in possessionof the particular device, it could well be time to jack it in, and marvel the enthralling sport for real from the stands, or through less controversial means.