"Japan's anti-piracy coalition says that one of the world's largest manga piracy networks has been shut down following a coordinated investigation between Japanese publishers and Chinese authorities. The Content Overseas Distribution Association (CODA) announced the arrest of an individual on suspicion of copyright infringement on November 19th, who "has admitted to operating" Bato.to and approximately 60 related sites, such as xbato.com and mangapark.io."
"Bato.to launched in 2014, growing to be one of the most recognizable online platforms for "scanalation" - in which manga, manhwa, and other comics are scanned, edited with translated text, and then distributed by online user communities. CODA reports that the 60 shuttered sites recorded a combined 350 million visits in May 2025 alone, with Bato.to making more than 400,000 yuan (around $57,000) in advertising revenue during peak months."
The Content Overseas Distribution Association (CODA) coordinated with Chinese authorities to shut down one of the world's largest manga piracy networks. An individual was arrested on suspicion of copyright infringement and admitted to operating Bato.to and roughly 60 related sites such as xbato.com and mangapark.io. Bato.to launched in 2014 and became a leading platform for scanlation of manga, manhwa, and other comics. The 60 shuttered sites recorded a combined 350 million visits in May 2025, and Bato.to generated more than 400,000 yuan (about $57,000) in advertising revenue during peak months. The operator was released on bail and faces expected indictment.
Read at The Verge
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