US Seizes More Than 1,000 Domains Over Illegal World Cup Streaming

July 20, 2026
By Mintesinot Nigussie

The US Department of Justice has seized more than 1,000 internet domains accused of illegally streaming FIFA World Cup 2026 matches as authorities intensify efforts to protect copyright rights and disrupt digital piracy networks. The seizures were carried out through three enforcement actions during the tournament by the US Immigration and Customs Enforcement Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) Washington Field Office and the National Intellectual Property Rights Coordination Center.

US authorities said the targeted websites were broadcasting live World Cup matches without authorisation, violating copyright laws and undermining official broadcasting agreements. The domains were identified with support from FIFA and several media and entertainment companies, including beIN Media Group, NBCUniversal, Warner Bros. and the Motion Picture Association’s Alliance for Creativity and Entertainment.

The Justice Department said the operation, known as Operation Offsides, also seeks to reduce risks to consumers, warning that illegal streaming platforms may expose users to malware, fraud and theft of financial information. “The unauthorised broadcast of World Cup matches violates intellectual property rights and fuels criminal organisations,” said Ivan J. Arvelo, director of the National Intellectual Property Rights Coordination Center.

The US action was part of a wider international crackdown on piracy linked to the tournament. Under Operation Red Card, law enforcement agencies across Latin America and Europe blocked hundreds of illegal streaming sites and targeted networks involved in counterfeit sports merchandise. In Colombia, authorities arrested members of a cybercriminal group accused of illegally accessing telecommunications systems and selling pirated streaming services, including World Cup matches.

The Justice Department said the enforcement campaign reflects broader efforts to combat cybercrime and intellectual property violations. Since 2020, its Computer Crime and Intellectual Property Section has secured convictions against more than 180 cyber and intellectual property criminals and recovered court-ordered returns exceeding 350 million US dollars for victims.

Source: FSX Business News