
Amazon Fire TV Stick users may soon start seeing a warning message when trying to side-load dodgy unofficial apps.
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People who own Amazon's Fire TV Stick have been issued a warning as misuse of the handy device could lead to "damage" or "loss of data".
A Fire Stick allows instant access to services such as Netflix, Prime Video and Disney+ – however it can also be adapted to side-load unofficial apps that aren't on Amazon's store. Some of these non-official apps can be used to access illegal streaming.
Amazon appears to be cracking down on these dodgy sites as AFTnews have spotted a warning message that pops up when users try to download unofficial apps, reports the Express.
A screenshot posted by AFTnews shows the message which reads, "WARNING: When you use applications from unknown sources, your TV and personal data are less secure and there is a risk of unexpected behaviour.
"You agree that you are solely responsible for any damage to your device or loss of data that may result from using these applications."
Amazon isn't stopping access to unofficial apps but the alert should be taken seriously, as they could open the door to data-stealing malware.
Using dodgy sites could also lead to adult content popping up on TVs which will be worrying for those with young children in the house.
This comes after recent research, which analysed 50 popular illegal streaming sites, found that all contained malicious content.
And over 40 percent of the sites that were analysed did not have a security certificate which means they probably aren't safe to visit.
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