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The BBC is to spy on internet users in their homes - and sniff out those watching iPlayer without paying the TV Licence fee.

The Beeb is set to employ Wi-Fi detection vans to prosecute people illegally watching its programmes online.

From September the broadcaster will use information from private Wi-Fi networks in homes.

The corporation has been given the right to use the new technology - normally used by police and security services.

(Image: Getty)

A new report from the National Audit Office reveals TV Licensing - the corporation’s licence-fee collection arm - has developed techniques to track those watching television on laptops, tablets, and mobile phones.

The report said: “Detection vans can identify viewing on a non-TV device in the same way that they can detect viewing on a television set.”

Currently, anyone who watches or records live programming – online or on television – needs to buy a £145.50 licence.

But from September 1, those who use the iPlayer only for catch-up viewing will also need to pay the fee, after the BBC successfully lobbied the Government to change the law.