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Football season is back, and for many fans, weeks and weekends are full of live games, highlights and postgame coverage. With more sports on streaming platforms than ever before, it can be tempting to click a free stream.  

But before you do, it’s worth understanding the risks of illegal sports streaming. 

What may seem like an easy way to watch the game could expose you to scams, malware and stolen personal information. 

 

Copyright Infringement Penalties 

Sports broadcasts are protected by copyright laws. When a website streams that content without permission, it violates those laws. Illegal streaming platforms then host or distribute content without authorization. 

While legal action often targets websites and services that share illegal content, people who stream sports illegally can still face copyright claims. Most enforcement efforts focus on the platforms themselves rather than individual viewers. 

However, legal risks are often the least of a viewer’s worries when they stream sports illegally. 

 

Malware Risks on Illegal Sports Streaming Sites 

Cybersecurity risks are often the more immediate threat facing viewers. 

Illegal streaming sites are frequently associated with: 

• Malware downloads
• Viruses
• Spyware
• Ransomware
• Malicious browser extensions 

These threats are often delivered through pop-up ads, fake video players, fraudulent download buttons or misleading system alerts. 

Once installed, malware can slow your device, install unwanted software or give cybercriminals access to sensitive information. In some cases, this can cause frequent crashes, reduce performance and additional security vulnerabilities. 

 

Data Theft 

The risks don't stop at malware. 

Some illegal platforms collect data from users and sell it to other companies. Others use phishing tactics to trick users into providing account information, according to StreamSafely. 

Potentially exposed information includes: 

• Email addresses
• Passwords
• Credit card details
• Home addresses
• Personal identification information 

This information can be used for identity theft, fraud or unauthorized account access. 

 

Identifying Illegal Streaming Sites 

Many illegal streaming platforms share common warning signs. 

Be cautious if a site: 

• Offers premium live sports completely free.
• Promises access to recently aired games without a subscription.
• Is filled with excessive pop-up ads.
• Frequently redirects you to unrelated websites.
• Encourages you to download unfamiliar software.

 

Stream Sports Safely with Midco 

For sports fans looking for a safer way to watch, MidcoTV provides access to trusted networks that carry the games viewers value most. 

“Live sports continues to be the biggest reason people subscribe to TV services,” said Tony Wirz, Associate Product Manager at Midco. “Midco has a commitment to providing that content to our subscribers." 

For customers looking for the widest selection of sports programming, Wirz recommends choosing a TV package that includes all the channels for the sports people want to watch.

"If you're a dedicated sports fan and want access to the broadest selection of sports programming, MidcoTV 4 is the package to consider," he said. 

MidcoTV customers can also watch games on networks such as FOX, CBS, NBC, ESPN and more, depending on their channel lineup. 

In addition to MidcoTV, fans can stream live local and regional sports through the Midco Sports Plus app. Available on web, mobile devices and popular streaming platforms like Roku, Apple TV and Fire TV, the service gives viewers more ways to watch the teams and events they care about. 

"We recently expanded Midco Sports Plus worldwide, making it easier than ever for fans to follow their favorite teams wherever they are," said Craig DeWit, Midco Sports Streaming and Digital Operations Senior Manager. 

Fans can choose packages featuring Summit League and NSIC athletics, locally produced university sports coverage, and CCHA hockey.  

Whether you're watching through MidcoTV or Midco Sports Plus, choosing legitimate streaming services helps you enjoy the game without worrying about malware, scams or stolen personal information. 

 

 

This material includes references to other brands, organizations and partners of Midco. The respective organizations retain trademark and registered trademark ownership for those referenced items.