US DOJ seizes nearly 400 illegal streaming sites targeting FIFA World Cup 2026

The U.S. Department of Justice announced the seizure of close to 400 internet domains that were illegally broadcasting live matches of the FIFA World Cup 2026. The operation, called “Operation Offsides,” was coordinated with FIFA and private‑sector partners including beIN Media Group, NBC Universal, the Motion Picture Association’s ACE alliance, UFC and Warner Bros. Law‑enforcement agencies used the International Computer Hacking and Intellectual Property (ICHIP) network to target servers and domains in Peru and Bulgaria, with additional actions in Colombia, Romania, Croatia and Poland. The takedowns represent five times more sites than the 2022 Qatar tournament, reflecting the U.S. co‑hosting role and expanded legal jurisdiction. Officials warned that the illegal streams not only infringe copyright but also expose viewers to malware, unsecured connections and potential theft of personal or financial data. The crackdown aims to protect intellectual‑property rights and ensure fans can watch the competition through legitimate, secure channels.