US seizes nearly 400 websites illegally streaming World Cup matches

By Arjun Nair / 27.06.2026

By Arjun Nair — 27 June 2026 — 3 min read

US Justice Department Targets Illegal Streaming Networks

The United States has taken action against nearly 400 internet domains that were engaged in the illegal streaming of World Cup matches. Officials announced the seizures on Friday, June 26, 2026, stating that the move was intended to disrupt international networks that profit from the tournament’s popularity.

The U.S. Justice Department confirmed that these domains were identified with assistance from FIFA, the governing body for soccer, along with other entities including NBC Universal and Warner Brothers. These domains were found to be illegally offering copyright-protected content, specifically real-time streams of World Cup matches as they were being played and broadcast.

Eric Weindorf, a special agent in charge at Homeland Security Investigations, highlighted the risks associated with these illegal streams. He noted that such streamers not only violate copyright laws but also expose viewers to potential threats. These threats include malware attacks and unsecure connections, which could compromise personal and financial data.

International Disruption Efforts

The operation targeted servers and domains linked to the unauthorized streaming of the tournament’s matches in various international locations. The DOJ specified that actions were taken in Peru and Bulgaria. Additionally, disruptions occurred in Croatia, Romania, Poland, and Colombia, indicating a broad international effort to combat illegal streaming.

Assistant Attorney General A. Tysen Duva, who works in the Criminal Division at the DOJ, emphasized the department’s commitment. He stated that the seizure of hundreds of domains, used for illegally streaming World Cup matches for profit, aims to disrupt international networks that benefit from the global appeal of the tournament.

Duva further explained that this operation demonstrates the department’s respect for intellectual property rights. It also underscores the responsibility of the United States as a host nation to protect the FIFA World Cup from criminal activities. The Criminal Division intends to continue disrupting these sites and, where appropriate, seek to prosecute those responsible for this criminal activity.

World Cup Popularity and Cybersecurity Concerns

The current World Cup commenced on June 11 in the United States, Canada, and Mexico. Matches are scheduled to continue across 16 cities in these three countries until July 19. According to FIFA, attendance for the matches has already set a record.

Recent matches have also been among the most-watched television programs, as reported by Nielsen. The match where the United States won against Australia topped this list, indicating significant viewership interest in the tournament.

Officials have warned that illegal streaming sites, while seemingly offering free content, often come with hidden risks. These sites are frequently used to spread malware, which can be exploited to compromise users’ personal data. The crackdown aims to protect both intellectual property and the public from such cybersecurity threats.

The action by the U.S. Justice Department represents a temporary victory in the ongoing challenge against illegal streamers. The department’s efforts are part of a broader strategy to safeguard the integrity of major international sporting events like the World Cup and protect viewers from digital dangers.

The World Cup will continue with games scheduled through July 19.

Source: thehindu.com