A UK study found that illegal streaming exposes users to scams, identity theft, malware and potentially organised crime; 37% of active users surveyed had encountered harmful or unsafe content. Researchers estimate fraud and theft cost UK viewers about £270 million annually.

Illegal streaming costs UK broadcasters an estimated £1.35 billion annually, including losses from sports, film and television. The study estimates these losses equate to 10,400 jobs and £366 million in forgone tax revenue, potentially limiting investment in production and sport.