FBI Shuts Down More Piracy Hubs for Nintendo Switch and PS4 Games

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The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) has shut down more major websites accused of distributing pirated video games, including popular titles for the Nintendo Switch and PlayStation 4 consoles. With support from the Netherlands’ Fiscal Information and Investigation Service (FIOD), the FBI dismantled the infrastructure of sites that had been operating illegally for years and facilitated millions of downloads.

Authorities confirmed the seizure of nsw2u.com, ps4pkg.com, and mgnetu.com, all known for leaking game files and offering early access to unauthorized copies. According to investigators, the sites recorded over 3.2 million downloads between February and May 2025. The estimated loss to the gaming industry is around $170 million in that short span alone.

Global Impact

One of the most widely used platforms, NSW2U, had gained serious traction among users looking for pirated Nintendo Switch content. Its influence wasn’t limited to the United States. In May 2025, the European Union added NSW2U to its Counterfeit and Piracy Watch List. Several countries, including the United Kingdom, Italy, Germany, France, Spain, and Portugal, moved to block access before the FBI-led takedown.

Visitors trying to access the seized domains now find official FBI notices replacing the sites. Officials stated that this operation is part of a larger crackdown on illegal online marketplaces and an effort to defend the intellectual property rights of game developers and publishers.

Despite increasing investment in Digital Rights Management (DRM) and more secure distribution methods, piracy remains rampant. A 2023 report from VPNCentral estimated there were about 3.3 billion gamers globally, with 10 percent admitting they had played or downloaded pirated games within the past three months. A PC Gamer survey found that 35 percent of PC gamers had pirated at least one title, while mobile piracy is even more widespread, affecting about 95 percent of Android and up to 60 percent of iOS games.

The problem extends beyond financial losses. Security experts warn that pirated games are often bundled with malware. In 2021 alone, over 3.2 million personal computers were infected after users downloaded files from unverified sources. These infections can compromise private data and leave users vulnerable to long-term harm.

The FBI praised its international partners, particularly the Dutch FIOD, for their assistance in tracking the operators behind the sites and executing the shutdown. In a statement, the FBI said the operation “sends a clear message to those who profit from stolen content.”

While online piracy is far from defeated, this latest crackdown is a clear sign that law enforcement is stepping up its efforts. For developers, it’s a welcome move toward protecting years of work, and for users, it’s a reminder of the real risks that come with cutting corners for free games.