Amazon Fire Sticks Crack Down on Illegal Streaming: Update to Block 'Dodgy' Apps Starting Today

Amazon is rolling out a major update to its Fire TV Stick devices starting today, aimed at curbing the widespread use of unofficial apps that enable illegal streaming. The move marks a significant shift in Amazon's approach to piracy enforcement and is expected to impact millions of households using modified or 'dodgy' Fire Sticks to access premium content without paying subscription fees.

Blocking Dodgy Apps and Sideloaded Content

Until now, Amazon Fire Sticks allowed users to sideload third-party applications without restriction, creating a loophole exploited by piracy-linked services. These apps often come pre-installed on modified devices sold through unofficial channels, giving users access to live sports, blockbuster films, and subscription-only entertainment for free.

With the new update, Amazon will begin blocking apps identified as providing unauthorized access to copyrighted content. This includes software downloaded from outside the official Amazon Appstore. Users attempting to launch such apps will receive a warning message and find the software disabled.

Led by ACE and Industry Pressure

The crackdown is part of an expanded initiative led by the Alliance for Creativity and Entertainment (ACE), a global coalition of media companies working to combat digital piracy. An Amazon spokesperson confirmed the company's alignment with ACE's goals, stating:

'Piracy is illegal, and we've always worked to block it from our Appstore. Through an expanded program led by ACE, we'll now block apps identified as providing access to pirated content, including those downloaded from outside our Appstore.'

Amazon emphasized that the update is designed to protect both creators and consumers, noting that piracy-linked apps can expose users to malware, fraud, and other security risks.

Europe First, UK Next

The rollout will begin in Europe, with the UK expected to be among the first regions affected. While legitimate streaming apps like Netflix, Disney+, Sky's NOW, and Prime Video will remain accessible—even when installed outside the Appstore—apps flagged for piracy will be blocked automatically.

This change is likely to be unpopular among users who have relied on modified Fire Sticks to bypass rising subscription costs. However, Amazon appears resolute in its stance, signaling a broader industry shift toward stricter enforcement.

Analyst Reaction and Consumer Impact

Telecom analyst Paolo Pescatore called the update 'long overdue' and 'a step in the right direction,' but acknowledged the underlying issue: rising costs and fragmented access to content. 'Broadcasters are spending more to secure live sports rights and passing these costs onto consumers who can't afford them,' he said. 'That's leading to a messy, fragmented experience.'

While the update won't eliminate piracy overnight, it represents a significant escalation in the streaming wars—one that could reshape how consumers access content and how platforms enforce digital rights.

For users relying on dodgy Fire Sticks, the message is clear: the free ride is now coming to an end.

Originally published on IBTimes UK