What is theft of service?

Theft of cable television service is the unauthorized interception and/or receipt of any communications service offered over a cable system without the consent of the cable operator.  Cable theft usually occurs when an individual knowingly and willfully makes illegal physical connections to a cable system or alters (or installs) any unauthorized equipment so that the cable signal can be received without the authorization or knowledge of a cable operator.

Back to Top

Why should I care about theft of service?

Cable television piracy affects your picture and/or internet connection quality by weakening the signal. In some systems, poor picture quality and/or internet time-out's is the reason for service calls and other system maintenance which increases system costs and puts pressure on your cable rates. Most of the equipment used by cable pirates is not built to systems specifications, thus radio signals used to transmit cable television can leak into frequencies reserved for aeronautical and emergency communications producing potential safety problems.

Any unauthorized person who intercepts or receives communications provided over a cable system may be penalized.  This includes the theft of audio, video, textual data, and any other service.  The law applies to manufacturers and distributors of equipment as well as to individuals.  Parties found guilty of cable theft are subject to criminal penalties, which may include substantial fines and/or time in prison. 

Back to Top

How do I report theft of service?