IPTV: this box allows you to enjoy Ligue 1 for free, but what are the risks ?

Very popular since the new DAZN subscription for Ligue 1  McDonald's, the IPTV phenomenon is is becoming more and more widespread, but the risks associated with their use remain high.

For several weeks, messages and requests concerning IPTV boxes have been pouring into social networks. Whether posts sent on X (formally Twitter) or Facebook statuses, many Internet users seem to suddenly evoke an interest in these small boxes that have been in circulation for several years now.

As a reminder, an IPTV (Internet Protocol Television) is, basically, a small box connected to your internet connection and allowing you to receive television channels on a screen.

As it stands, an IPTV that allows you to simply enjoy your Netflix subscriptions, Ligue 1, McDonald's or the TV channels you pay for is completely legal. For several years, however, the use of IPTV has been diverted in order to offer boxes with multiple channels and subscriptions without paying the licenses and rights to use them. This is why it is increasingly common to find messages on social networks promoting IPTV boxes for around twenty or thirty euros per year, and allowing you to have multiple TV channels and streaming sites at no additional cost.

IPTVs have been enjoying a real boom in recent weeks. The credit goes to the new DAZN subscription, which allows you to enjoy Ligue 1 McDonald's matches for a minimum price of 30 euros per month (for the least expensive plan). A price considered unreasonable by many football fans who are now turning to the IPTV solution to watch all the league matches without sacrificing their budget.

The majority IPTV users use social networks and the Telegram messaging application to find their box or follow matches. The latter allows users and interested parties to exchange information about these boxes without fear of having their messages tracked or identified by potential services and legal authorities thanks to an encryption of conversations.

What are the risks involved in using an IPTV ?

However, using an IPTV without paying the licenses of the channels and streaming services used is completely illegal. According to ARCOM, the use of IPTV jumped by 16% in 2023 compared to the previous year. A figure that is likely to rise again this year following the new McDonald's Ligue 1 rate.

ARCOM also reminds that users of illegal IPTV risk up to five years in prison and a fine of 375,000 euros according to article 321-1 of the Penal Code which punishes the receiving of counterfeit goods.