Gardaí Shut Down Over 500 Suspected Illegal IPTV Accounts Following Thurles Search Operation.
An Garda Síochána has confirmed that more than 500 accounts, suspected of accessing illegal TV streaming services, have been shut down following an intelligence-led operation conducted in Thurles, Co. Tipperary.
Gardaí searched a domestic residence in the Thurles area on Monday, March 2nd 2026, as part of an operation targeting the alleged provision of illegal streaming services and money laundering offences.
During the search, electronic devices were seized for examination. No arrests have been made at this time. However, a file is being prepared for submission to the Director of Public Prosecutions.
Background.
Internet Protocol Television (IPTV) delivers TV content over broadband or internet connections. The use of unauthorised IPTV services, often accessed through modified streaming devices commonly referred to as “dodgy boxes”, which may constitute a copyright offence under Irish law.
Under Section 140 of the Copyright and Related Rights Act 2000, certain copyright offences can carry significant penalties, including fines and imprisonment upon conviction on indictment.
Wider Context.
In separate reporting, Ireland’s Data Protection Commission (DPC) has confirmed it has been engaging with Sky regarding the company’s efforts to tackle illegal streaming, including the proposed use of personal data in anti-piracy activity, subject to data protection requirements.
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