In a major crackdown on illegal streaming services, U.S. authorities have shut down 138 pirate IPTV websites, disrupting unauthorized access to live sports content. This operation, led by the Alliance for Creativity and Entertainment (ACE), was carried out in December 2024 and targeted platforms that provided illegal access to premium sports events.
According to ACE, these websites collectively attracted over 800,000 visits per year, with a significant number of users based in the United States and Canada. Most of these platforms were hosted on servers in Vietnam, making it one of the largest illegal sports streaming networks globally.
The crackdown affected several popular IPTV sites, including MethStream, CrackStreams, WeakSpell, and MarkkyStreams, which allowed users to watch major American and international sports leagues for free.
Authorities have emphasized that this action serves as a warning to other illegal streaming operators. Larissa Knapp from the Motion Picture Association (MPA) stated that shutting down these platforms is a crucial step in the ongoing battle against digital piracy.
This enforcement effort follows a recent European operation that dismantled a massive illegal IPTV network serving over 22 million users across the continent. These coordinated efforts highlight the increasing global commitment to combat piracy and protect content creators.
Users are advised to steer clear of unauthorized streaming services to avoid potential legal consequences and cybersecurity risks. Instead, they should opt for legitimate and licensed IPTV providers to ensure a safe and legal viewing experience.