As the **World Cup** entered its critical knockout stage, the **U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ)** confirmed the takedown of hundreds of websites engaged in the unauthorized streaming of tournament broadcasts. This significant enforcement action underscores a broader effort to combat digital piracy and safeguard online users. ### Operation Targets Piracy Hubs and Cybersecurity Threats Nearly 400 domains were seized, a move the **DOJ** highlighted in a recent press release. Authorities emphasized that the dangers of illegal streaming extend beyond copyright infringement, posing tangible cybersecurity threats to unsuspecting viewers. **Eric Weindorf**, Special Agent in Charge of the Washington field office of **Homeland Security Investigations (HSI)**, stated, "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." ### Collaborative International Effort The operation was a collaborative undertaking, with the **World Cup** organizing body, **FIFA**, providing crucial assistance in identifying the illicit domains. **NBC Universal**, a U.S. broadcaster, and other entities also contributed to the intelligence gathering. The **HSI**, a component of the **Department of Homeland Security**, coordinated the effort alongside the **International Computer Hacking and Intellectual Property (ICHIP) Network** of U.S. prosecutors. The enforcement action spanned multiple countries, targeting known piracy centers. "Servers and domains linked to illegal streaming of World Cup games were targeted in Peru and Bulgaria, two known centers of online piracy activity," the **DOJ** reported. "Additional ICHIP-supported disruptions took place in Croatia, Romania, Poland and Colombia." ### A Recurring Challenge This isn't the first time **HSI** has led such an initiative. A similar operation during the 2022 **World Cup** resulted in the seizure of over 70 websites. Pirated sports streams are commonly delivered via **Internet Protocol Television (IPTV)** services, which have been the subject of numerous law enforcement actions. Recent years have seen authorities target major illicit operations such as **Streameast** and **247TVStream**. Investigations have consistently revealed that illegal streaming networks can generate millions of dollars, often through sophisticated, globally distributed infrastructures.