Whether you play mobile or web games, you've likely heard of "third-party top-up services." In Japan, these are known as "kakin daikō" (proxy top-ups), where real money is used to commission a third party to purchase in-game items or currency. However, this practice has also led to numerous unscrupulous operators engaging in fraudulent activities.
Yesterday (July 2), Japanese police revealed an illegal gaming-related case. Twelve male and female players were arrested and referred to prosecutors by the Metropolitan Police Department for using "proxy top-up" methods to defraud virtual currency from online games operated by SEGA and SQUARE ENIX. This case has sparked considerable discussion, not only due to the substantial amount involved but also because ordinary players are being held criminally liable.
According to investigations by the Metropolitan Police Department, these 12 individuals used so-called "Real Money Trading (RMT)" websites. On these platforms, which specialize in buying and selling game currency and accounts, they saw advertisements for "proxy top-up" services and proactively applied for them. They would pay a fee of approximately 2% to 6%, and the proxy top-up operators would then log into their game accounts, using illegal means to defraud virtual currency from the game companies and deliver it to the players.
Among the 12 individuals, one chose to remain silent, while the other 11 admitted to using "proxy top-up services," adding that they "knew this practice was a bit of a gray area." Police are investigating the case under charges of computer fraud. Currently, four individuals have been arrested, and the remaining eight have been referred to the public prosecutor's office for investigation.
Japanese police stated that in cases involving "defrauding virtual currency through proxy top-up operators," the estimated fraud amount against SEGA is approximately 130 million JPY, while for SQUARE ENIX, it reaches as high as 880 million JPY. It is rare for not only the proxy top-up operators but also the end-users of the games to be arrested and referred to prosecutors in such cases. Police are urging the public, emphasizing that even if players pay for the service, they can still be considered accomplices.
Of course, not all "third-party top-up services" are illicit or illegal. Perhaps using legitimate channels for in-game purchases is the best approach. However, SEGA Japan had already announced not to use so-called "proxy top-up services" to avoid legal issues, so it's advisable for everyone to exercise caution.
Note: Financial figures and earnings forecasts should be confirmed through the company’s official announcements.
via： NHK