It's one of the most popular TV streaming services in the world, but it seems that boxes running Kodi software may not be as safe as you think.

A new report has revealed that Kodi boxes purchased from the black market that can stream illegal content pose a 'substantial' fire and electric shock risks to users.

The report even goes so far as to suggest that some boxes could be lethal, with tests revealing that electric shocks emitted could cause 'fatalities.'

The experts behind the report are now urging people with the devices to 'unplug it and stop using it immediately.'

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It's one of the most popular TV streaming services in the world, but it seems that boxes running Kodi software may not be as safe as you think. A new report has revealed that Kodi boxes pose 'substantial' fire and electric shock risks to users

HOW TO STAY SAFE To stay safe, Electrical Safety First recommends carrying out following checks: 1) Markings Look for the manufacturers' brand name or logo, model and batch mark number. Check that there is a CE mark and that the output voltage and current ratings marked on the charge match your electrical device. 2) Pin plugs Make sure that they plug in easily to the socket and there is at least 9.5mm between the edge of the pins and the edge of the charger 3) Warnings and instructions Ensure your product has all the necessary instructions for use and adequate warnings. Advertisement

Researchers from Electrical Safety First have conducted a review of nine Kodi boxes that were taken from raids across the UK.

These tend to be cheap boxes bought on the black market that are pre-loaded with Kodi software and illegal add-ons that let users access films and TV programmes.

The boxes were assessed in terms of any faults in the marking, warnings and instructions.

Their analysis revealed that none of the boxes complied with the Electrical Equipment (Safety) Regulations 1994.

The report states: 'Several of the samples were considered to offer a potential risk of injury to the user, which includes risk of electric shock and/or fire.

'The product review relates primarily to the switched mode power supply units for the connection to the mains supply, which were supplied with the devices, to identify any potential risks to consumers such as electric shocks, heating and resistance to fire. '

Researchers have conducted a review of nine Kodi boxes that were taken from raids across the UK. These tend to be cheap boxes bought on the black market that are pre-loaded with Kodi software (pictured) and illegal add-ons that let users access films and TV programmes

WHAT IS KODI TV? Kodi is software that lets you stream apps and on-demand services on TV. The software, which is legal, can even be downloaded onto an Amazon Fire stick. Blank boxes can be bought from most major retailers for as little as £20 ($24), with the software uploaded afterwards. Users can play BBC iPlayer, Youtube, Soundcloud and other free catch-up apps on the device. But many of the plug-ins the box offers are illegal. Be wary if the box is pre-loaded to include subscription sport, TV and movies for free. Commonly the 'fully loaded' boxes let users watch Premier League games or Sky Movies without paying a subscription fee. Advertisement

The experts even go so far as to suggest that the products could be fatal.

Speaking to the Independent, Steve Curtler, product safety manager at Electrical Safety First, said: 'Given the nature of the safety issues we found, [the worst case result of one malfunctioning] would be for a fire to break out, causing severe property damage and even fatalities, and of course fatalities from electric shock.'

This isn't the first time that these boxes have come under scrutiny in terms of electrical safety.

In June, the EU issued a recall notice for the OTT TV Box 4K, a Chinese-made Android TV box, or 'Kodi box' due to a serious risk of electric shock, calling for owners of the box to stop using it immediately and return it for a refund.

And in July, a raid in Westminster seized more than 40 illegal streaming devices that not only provided access to illegal content, but also lacked UK electrical safety measures making them potentially dangerous for users with the potential to pose a risk of electrocution or fire.

Mr Curtler added: 'We urge anyone with one of these devices to unplug it and stop using it immediately.

'Not only are these devices breaking the law, but they could be putting your loved ones at risk.'