The Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Atlanta Field Office announced today the seizure of several major online criminal marketplaces that provided pirated versions of popular video games, dismantling a multi-million dollar piracy operation that caused an estimated $170 million in losses to the gaming industry.

The coordinated law enforcement action targeted websites that had been operating for more than four years, distributing pirated copies of highly anticipated video games days or weeks before their official release dates. The sites attracted millions of users seeking free access to premium gaming content.

According to FBI records, between February 28, 2025, and May 28, 2025, the seized websites facilitated approximately 3.2 million downloads through their most popular download service alone.

This massive distribution network resulted in significant financial losses to game developers and publishers, with authorities estimating damages at $170 million.

Today, we’re announcing the seizure and dismantlement of several illicit video game marketplaces. From February to May of this year, there were approximately 3.2 million illicit downloads, and these downloads caused an estimated loss of $170 million: https://t.co/hrTmF0jIVU pic.twitter.com/saavl4WDEH
— FBI (@FBI) July 11, 2025

The FBI obtained federal authorization to seize the domains of multiple high-traffic piracy sites, including nsw2u[.]com, nswdl[.]com, game-2u[.]com, bigngame[.]com, ps4pkg[.]com, ps4pkg[.]net, and mgnetu[.]com. These domains served as the primary infrastructure for hosting and facilitating access to the pirated video games.

Visitors to these formerly active piracy sites now encounter seizure banners notifying them that federal authorities have seized the domains under a court-issued warrant. The banners display official FBI and Department of Justice logos, serving as a stark reminder of the legal consequences of digital piracy.

The investigation and seizure operation were conducted in coordination with international partners, highlighting the global nature of digital piracy enforcement. The FBI specifically acknowledged the assistance of the Dutch Fiscal Information and Investigation Service (FIOD) in this international investigation.

This action represents a significant victory in the ongoing battle against video game piracy, which has become increasingly sophisticated with digital distribution platforms. The seized websites operated elaborate networks that distributed pirated content and built communities around illegal game sharing.

The timing of the seizures is particularly significant, as they occurred during a period when several major gaming releases were anticipated by consumers worldwide. By distributing games before their official release dates, these piracy sites directly undermined legitimate sales and marketing efforts by game publishers.

Federal authorities emphasized that this operation sends a clear message to others involved in digital piracy operations. The seizure of these domains represents part of a broader enforcement strategy targeting the infrastructure that enables large-scale copyright infringement.

The investigation remains ongoing, and authorities have not ruled out additional charges or seizures related to this case. The FBI continues to work with international partners to identify and prosecute individuals involved in operating these illegal marketplaces.

This enforcement action underscores the federal government’s commitment to protecting intellectual property rights in the digital age and supporting the legitimate gaming industry.

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