The Entertainment Software Association (ESA) has applauded efforts by the U.S. and other foreign law enforcement agents for taking down multiple servers hosting the download of copyright-protected games. Dubbed 'Operation Site Down' (how corny), the global anti-piracy enforcement initiative was involved in the dismantling of at least eight online servers who were shelling out millions of dollars worth of games for people to download freely.
We commend U.S. Attorney General Alberto Gonzales, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the U.S. Department of JusticeÂs Computer Crimes and Intellectual Property Section, U.S. Attorneys offices nationwide, and participating foreign law enforcement officials for their tremendous efforts in targeting these online piracy groups, which represent major priorities for the interactive video game industry, said Doug Lowenstein, president of ESA, the trade association representing U.S. computer and video game publishers. ÂThis kind of global enforcement action sends a clear message to the pirate community: when it comes to fighting piracy, there are no borders. Intellectual property theft will continue to be pursued aggressively through the combined efforts of foreign law enforcement officials the world over.
The operation targeted release groups who manufacture copied games, software etc. Some groups on their list were 'Myth', 'Vengeance', and 'Gamerz,' who they claim were specialists in the 'early distribution of pirated games throughout the world via the Internet.'U.S. and foreign law enforcement officials conducted close to 100 searches worldwide within a 24-hour period. Searches occurred in the U.S., Canada, Israel, France, Belgium, Denmark, the Netherlands, United Kingdom, Germany, Portugal, and Australia. The investigation has identified more than 120 individuals around the world, including many leaders or high-level members of piracy groups. The Department of Justice expects that additional targets will be identified and pursued during this ongoing investigation.
Video Game Industry Applauds Worldwide Piracy Raids In 'Operation Site Down'
The Shadow Internet (02 01 05)
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