United States seizes about 400 domains used to stream World Cup illegally

The U.S. Department of Justice announced that it has seized nearly 400 internet domains that were being used to stream live FIFA World Cup matches without authorization. The domains were identified with assistance from FIFA, NBC Universal and Warner Brothers. According to the DOJ, the sites offered copyright‑protected content in real time, exposing viewers to malware and insecure connections.

Special Agent Eric Weindorf of Homeland Security Investigations said the illegal streamers “violate copyright laws” and pose security risks to personal and financial data. The enforcement action targeted servers in Peru and Bulgaria and included additional disruptions in Croatia, Romania, Poland and Colombia. The 2026 World Cup, being hosted by the United States, Canada and Mexico, has set attendance records and attracted massive viewership worldwide.