In a first-of-its-kind case, Japanese authorities have arrested a man for modifying and selling Nintendo Switch consoles pre-loaded with pirated games, signalling a stricter crackdown on gaming piracy.

In a landmark legal development, Japanese authorities have arrested 58-year-old Fumihiro Otobe from Ibaraki Prefecture for allegedly modifying and selling Nintendo Switch consoles equipped to run pirated games. This marks the first known arrest in Japan for such an offense, highlighting the country's stringent stance on intellectual property rights.
According to reports, Otobe acquired second-hand Switch consoles, modified their circuit boards by soldering additional components, and installed software enabling the devices to play unauthorized game copies. He then sold these altered consoles online for approximately ¥28,000 (around $180 USD), each pre-loaded with 27 pirated games.
Upon his arrest, Otobe admitted to the charges, stating,
"I was curious to know whether people would think I was great if I sold modified consoles."
This case underscores Japan's rigorous enforcement of its Trademark Act, particularly concerning the unauthorized modification and distribution of gaming hardware and software. The arrest sets a significant precedent, reflecting the country's commitment to combating digital piracy and protecting intellectual property rights.
Nintendo has a history of taking legal action against individuals and groups involved in hardware modification and software piracy. Notably, in 2022, Gary Bowser, a member of the hacking group Team-Xecuter, was sentenced to 40 months in prison in the United States for creating and selling devices that enabled Switch piracy.
The arrest of Otobe may signal a more aggressive approach by Japanese authorities in addressing console modification and game piracy, aiming to deter similar activities in the future.
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