FBI and FIOD Shut Down Nsw2u: Major Nintendo Switch Piracy Website Seized

FBI and FIOD Shut Down Nsw2u: Major Nintendo Switch Piracy Website Seized The ongoing battle against video game piracy has marked another significant milestone as the FBI, in collaboration with the Dutch Fiscal Information and Investigation Service (FIOD), has officially seized Nsw2u, a prominent website that distributed pirated Nintendo Switch ROMs.

Nsw2u was frequently referenced within gaming circles for hosting large collections of unauthorized Nintendo Switch game files, enabling users with hacked consoles or PC emulators to access commercial titles without lawful purchase.

This takedown reflects Nintendo’s persistent commitment to protecting its intellectual property and combating digital piracy across the Nintendo Switch platform, eShop, and related ecosystems. On June 2024, visitors to Nsw2u attempting to access the website were met with an official seizure notice.

According to the posted information, the Federal Bureau of Investigation acted under a warrant issued pursuant to 18 U.S.C.

2323 by the United States District Court for the Northern District of Georgia.

This move was described as part of a coordinated law enforcement operation involving both U.S.

and Dutch authorities.

The notice leaves no ambiguity about the fate of Nsw2u, as law enforcement seeks to curtail the illegal proliferation of Nintendo Switch games and software modifications. Piracy has been a longstanding challenge for Nintendo, particularly since the launch of the Nintendo Switch in March 2017.

The console’s early vulnerabilities enabled various hacking attempts, giving rise to unauthorized distribution platforms like Nsw2u.

In recent years, Nintendo has intensified its anti-piracy enforcement, taking legal action against both hardware modders and software developers.

Notably, the company filed two high-profile lawsuits targeting Modded Hardware—known for selling mod chips and MIG devices—as well as James Williams, who was linked to enterprises distributing unauthorized Nintendo Switch games. Nintendo’s legal initiatives extend to popular emulator projects such as Yuzu and Ryujinx, which, while not inherently illegal, became focal points for concerns regarding the facilitation of unlicensed game use.

This multi-faceted approach highlights Nintendo’s dedication to securing its games—widely available through legitimate means such as the Nintendo eShop, Nintendo Direct presentations, and retail partners. Industry experts note that the enforcement against piracy sites like Nsw2u is crucial for sustaining game developer revenues and the long-term health of the gaming ecosystem.

As one official notice explained, operations like these demonstrate a zero-tolerance policy against the unauthorized sharing and exploitation of intellectual property, especially involving major commercial platforms like the Nintendo Switch. With the Nsw2u website now offline, Nintendo, the FBI, and FIOD reaffirm their stance against piracy, underscoring the legal risks associated with downloading and distributing unauthorized Switch titles.

For players seeking to experience Nintendo Switch games, the company continues to deliver robust offerings via the eShop and official retail channels—ensuring both developers and fans can enjoy a thriving, legitimate gaming community.

Nintendo Switch Nintendo Switch FBI FIOD Nsw2u United States District Court for the Northern District of Georgia Yuzu Ryujinx James Williams Modded Hardware