A crackdown on so-called ‘dodgy boxes’ is underway amid concern about a loss of revenue. 

‘Dodgy boxes’ are illegal devices that allow the owner to watch channels - usually sport - that normally have to be paid for. 

CEO of Sport for Business Rob Hartnett said the practice is putting commercial interests at risk. 

“Sky are sponsoring the Irish Women’s Football Team and are heading to the World Cup this year,” he told Newstalk Breakfast. 

“If we were all using ‘dodgy boxes’ and using the service for free that sponsorship that might not happen.” 

R1N6PN TV Remote with Dedicated Netflix Button in front of Defocused Smart TV Allard Schager / Alamy

Mr Harnett says ‘dodgy boxes’ are easy to obtain - “It’s Ireland, we all know somebody who knows somebody” -  but said the devices are ultimately harmful. 

“If you’re not paying for it, somebody is,” he said. 

“Sometimes they can be advertisers or even people who are going to try and scam your money who are ultimately paying for it as well. 

“So, it is something that looks very attractive because you get everything that you would normally be paying for upwards of €100 for - you’re getting it for nothing.” 

Cease and desist letters have already been sent to users in Kilkenny, Mayo, Limerick, Meath, Offaly, Dublin, and Wexford. 

Letters will continue to go out until mid-March and warn users they could face criminal prosecution if they persist.