US Seizes Nearly 400 Websites Illegally Streaming World Cup

The United States has seized nearly 400 internet domains used for the illegal streaming of the World Cup, the Justice Department announced Friday. This action is intended to disrupt international networks that profit from the tournament's popularity and to protect viewers from potential online threats.

Officials said the domains were identified with assistance from FIFA, NBCUniversal, and Warner Bros. The targeted domains were used to illegally offer real-time streams of World Cup matches, violating copyright laws. The Justice Department highlighted that these illegal streams not only infringe on copyright but also expose viewers to risks like malware and insecure connections that could compromise personal and financial data.

The operation targeted servers and domains in Peru and Bulgaria, with additional disruptions occurring in Croatia, Romania, Poland, and Colombia. The World Cup, hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico, is currently underway, with matches scheduled across 16 cities until July 19. FIFA has reported record attendance for the tournament, and recent matches have been among the most-watched television programs.

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These streamers not only violate copyright laws but also expose viewers to potential threats - including malware attacks and unsecure connections that can compromise personal and financial data.