Major Anime Piracy Sites Shut Down Worldwide

Multiple high-profile anime piracy websites, including Aniwave, AnimeSuga, and 123Anime, have been shut down in a sudden and coordinated effort, likely linked to the Alliance for Creativity and Entertainment's global anti-piracy campaign. Aniwave's closure, which previously attracted around 170 million visits monthly, included a farewell message encouraging users to turn to legal streaming options, reflecting a shift in the anime industry's approach to piracy as it gains mainstream popularity. The sudden disappearance of these sites has sparked speculation on social media, with many users predicting the emergence of new alternatives despite the ongoing crackdown. This wave of shutdowns is part of a broader trend as the anime industry, supported by major streaming platforms like Netflix and Disney, intensifies its battle against illegal streaming. Legal alternatives for anime viewing have proliferated, leading to a shift in consumer behavior toward paid services. As the industry evolves, the future of anime piracy remains uncertain, with a persistent cycle of shutdowns and new sites surfacing.