It's the same for cracked software programs and PC games. If a copy exists on the internet, it will always be circulated despite the ire of the author or the ones sharing the scans/screenshots. Doesn't matter if mangago shuts down, there's gonna be a prick out there who'll upload a copy in another site. To some people, they're unsung heroes, to others, they're assholes. As for the whole "you're not a real fan", that's the most obnoxious thing I've heard all day.
But despite all that, supporting the artist is always a good thing to do. Best to do that when you actually have the money to support them. It's not good to take the credit card of your parents just so you can be a "real fan"-- or if you're struggling to pay your food, transportation, bills, and loans.
Okay so I was reading in the comments of a manga and EVERYONE was fighting about the site being shut down in the future, how it’s illegal, and if you use this site, you aren’t a real fan. Like I get that you should support an artist but as someone who can’t afford to do that this is kind of my only option.. I don’t know.. what are your guys thoughts on this issue?