A massive anime piracy operation has been brought to a halt in Vietnam, with authorities arresting seven suspects behind the popular HiAnime streaming service. The move marks a significant victory for the Alliance for Creativity and Entertainment (ACE), a coalition of media and entertainment companies that have been working tirelessly to shut down illicit streaming services.
HiAnime was one of the most-watched anime streaming platforms globally, attracting hundreds of millions of visitors each month. Its massive library of English-subbed and dubbed anime content, available without subscription fees, made it an attractive option for fans. However, behind the scenes, the operation was generating a staggering $12.85 million in illicit advertising revenue between 2020 and April this year.
The suspects, who have been charged with copyright infringement and money laundering, allegedly created over 100 websites to upload more than 26,000 pirated anime films. The investigation, led by Vietnam’s Ministry of Public Security (MPS), involved a multi-year collaboration with international authorities, including the U.S. Department of Justice and Homeland Security Investigations.
The shutdown of HiAnime marks a significant milestone in the ongoing battle against piracy. In March this year, ACE announced the dismantling of AnimePlay, another major anime streaming platform that hosted over 60 terabytes of content and had millions of registered users. The coalition has been working tirelessly to disrupt illicit streaming services, and its efforts have paid off with the arrests in Vietnam.
The impact of pirate operations like HiAnime extends far beyond the entertainment industry. Cybercrime groups often use these platforms as a front for their malicious activities, making them a lucrative business model for organized crime. By shutting down these operations, authorities are not only protecting intellectual property rights but also preventing cybercrime networks from generating revenue.
While the shutdown of HiAnime is a major victory, it highlights the ongoing challenges faced by media and entertainment companies in combating piracy. Illicit streaming services often operate with ease, leveraging complex infrastructure and exploiting vulnerabilities in online platforms. As such, it’s essential for both consumers and industry stakeholders to remain vigilant and take proactive steps to prevent piracy.
So what can you do to stay safe? First and foremost, be cautious of free streaming services that seem too good to be true. If a platform offers an extensive library of content without subscription fees, it may be operating outside the law. Always opt for legitimate streaming services that respect copyright laws and invest in protecting their users’ data.
Moreover, support your favorite creators by choosing official streaming platforms or purchasing digital copies of your favorite shows. By making informed choices, you’re contributing to a more sustainable entertainment industry that rewards creativity and innovation.
In the end, the shutdown of HiAnime serves as a powerful reminder of the ongoing efforts to combat piracy and protect intellectual property rights. As consumers, it’s essential to stay informed and take proactive steps to prevent supporting illicit activities. By doing so, we can help create a safer online environment for everyone.
Source: Bleeping Computer — 2026-07-06