The Digital Economy Act now passed into law, meaning that the people could now face a ten-year prison sentence for illegally streaming the copyrighted content.
It covers a wide range of areas, including the broadband speeds, access to the online pornography and also government data-sharing.
However, amid rising popularity of Kodi, an increase to maximum prison term – from 2 years straight to ten – for many people guilty of the copyright infringement is very interesting.
Anyone who is caught streaming films, TV shows and sports events illegally using on various websites, torrents and even Kodi add-ons can technically face a decade behind the bars.
However, this new law will most likely target the individuals and groups trying to make a business out of selling the illegal content, FACT CEO Kieron Sharp told Mirror.
“I’m delighted that the Digital Economy Act has become law,” Matt Hancock, the minister of state for digital and culture said.
“This legislation will help to build a more connected and a stronger economy. The Act will help major improvements in broadband rollout and also support for consumers, better protection for children on Internet, and also further transformation of the government services.”
Broadcasters and authorities are becoming increasingly concerned about the media players loaded with the Kodi and a variety of third-party add-ons which provide free access to the copyrighted content.
Scotland Police recently claimed that the “criminal gangs” have started selling media players pre-loaded with Kodi and a variety of third-party add-ons, because they see it as a less risky area of crime.