Is it possible for someone to steal pay per view from our satellite?

Question

I had a satellite box with direct tv. When we moved we cancelled the service and returned the boxes. They have now sent us a bill stating that there were about 6 pay per views on the "chip" in the box for an adult channel. We didn't even have our phone line hooked up to order these. We never used the ppv service at all. Is it possible someone tapped into our system and ordered these films?

Answer 1

I doubt there is a hacker and you don't need a phone line to get PPV - you simply call.

If the charges are after you moved, it will be easy to defend. If they were on your last bill, someone in the house tested the PPV feature.

Answer 2

i didn't think that could be possible. maybe he was some really good hacker.

Answer 3

no they cant if you only have 2 boxes

Answer 4

Not really but possible if your a good hacker and live next door. Sorry, I used to work for the cable company.

Answer 5

If the purchases were actually on the chip as you say, then the receiver actually decoded the movies.  Most probably someone ordered the movies on that receiver and disconnected the phone line before it had a chance to report the completion of the purchase or called and ordered the PPV over the phone.  You may want to check with people who may have had access to the reciever when no one was around like teenagers, contractors, etc.