FBI Seizes Major Piracy Websites Targeting Nintendo Switch and PS4

In a significant crackdown on piracy, the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) has announced the seizure of several websites that facilitated illegal downloads of video games for platforms including the Nintendo Switch and PlayStation 4. The FBI's Atlanta field office revealed on July 14, 2025, that it had taken action against nsw2u.com, nswdl.com, game-2u.com, bigngame.com, ps4pkg.com, ps4pkg.net, and mgnetu.com, placing FBI banners on each site to notify users of the shutdown.

The FBI stated that these websites had been in operation for more than four years, providing pirated copies of highly anticipated video games often days or weeks ahead of their official release dates. Between February 28, 2025, and May 28, 2025, records indicated that approximately 3.2 million downloads occurred from these sites, leading to an estimated loss of $170 million for the video game industry. This operation was part of a larger initiative supported by law enforcement agencies in the Netherlands, emphasizing international cooperation in combating cybercrime.

The takedown of these piracy sites has sparked a mixed response from the gaming community. While some users expressed discontent over the seizure of resources they used for years, the European Union had previously identified nsw2u as a major player in the distribution of unauthorized game copies, placing it on its Counterfeit and Piracy Watch List in May 2025. The EU noted that stakeholders in the video game industry had reported nsw2u to law enforcement due to its blatant disregard for rightholders' requests to cease illegal activities.

In a report, the EU detailed that nsw2u recorded approximately 2.3 million visits globally in February 2025 alone. Additionally, the Entertainment Software Association, representing major gaming entities such as Nintendo and Microsoft, had previously highlighted nsw2u's defiance against takedown notices sent to its operators.

Countries across Europe, including the United Kingdom, Spain, Portugal, Italy, Germany, and France, have enacted measures to block access to nsw2u and its affiliated sites. The collective effort of U.S. and European authorities in targeting piracy reflects an ongoing commitment to protect intellectual property in the digital age. Recent operations have also led to the arrest of individuals behind other illegal streaming and piracy networks, showcasing a determined approach to tackling cybercrime.

As the gaming industry continues to evolve with technological advancements, the implications of piracy extend beyond mere financial losses. Industry experts stress that piracy undermines the innovation and creativity that drive game development. Dr. Emily Carter, a professor of digital media at the University of Southern California, emphasized, "Piracy not only impacts revenues but also discourages developers from investing in new projects, ultimately stifling creativity in the gaming industry."

Looking ahead, the gaming industry must bolster its defenses against piracy while promoting legal avenues for consumers to access content. The proactive measures taken by law enforcement highlight the importance of collaboration between governmental bodies and industry stakeholders in safeguarding intellectual property. As the landscape of digital content continues to shift, ongoing dialogue will be essential to address the challenges posed by piracy and ensure a sustainable future for game developers and consumers alike.