Another popular file-swapping site that enabled BitTorrent users to trade files has closed permanently.
"We are very sorry for this," said a statement on Supernova.org, "but there was no other way, we have tried everything." They did not, however, comment otherwise on the shutdown or about an apparent mirror site copying Supernova and its functions including free registration.
Supernova isn't the only BitTorrent-connected site going down. N4p.com also said they closed, but they at least said it was due partially to a civil complaint citing the Digital Millennium Copyright Act.
Torrentbits.org and Phoenix-torrents.com also closed. "Good-bye," said a note at the plain white page now showing for those visiting Torrentbits. "Thanks to all users, uploaders, mods and donors for helping create the best torrent site on the net, but this is where the road ends for us."
Phoenix-torrents.com had a slightly more elaborate farewell for visitors. "Due to the current climate and current conditions the unfortunate, difficult and sad decision has been taken to close Phoenix Torrents down," said the site's farewell.
"We have all made friends during our time here that we would like to keep in touch with, so we are keeping the [Internet Relay Chat] channel open for chat and to get together – please use it," the site continued. "We've had our ups and downs during the last 14 months, but mostly its been a ball. Without your support it wouldn’t have been possible so we would like to thank all the members, visitors and supporters of Phoenix Torrents during this time, and wish the other torrent sites in the community every success."
Last week, the Motion Picture Association of America said they would sue those operating file-swap servers for BitTorrent, eDonkey, and Direct Connect. After that, eight were arrested and eleven servers seized in raids in the Netherlands, adding to similar raids against Finnish and French servers.
