Are criminal acts part of MMOs?
We hear it daily: Especially in MMOs, accounts being banned is often talked about. These are frequently high numbers thrown around. Are there also cases where players are actually convicted?
That always depends on the reason for which an account or the player is banned and which legal system they are subject to. For example, in Germany, bans due to insults, threats, sexual harassment, or the use of bots can always lead to legal consequences. This applies ultimately worldwide. Years ago, there were cases of the confiscation of virtual items that were ruled in both the Netherlands and Germany.
What is the difference between game mechanics and criminal acts?
[iThere is indeed a fundamental difference. In games that, for example, allow raiding or plundering fellow players, or where this can be expected – like in EVE Online – such actions are not per se classified as criminal.
One could perhaps compare this to football, where there are often instances of (negligent) bodily injury, and these still do not lead to legal consequences since players are aware of and consent to such behaviors beforehand. However, a different situation arises with account hacks and the sale of virtual items from that account. Those actions are specifically not covered by game mechanics.
You are in regular contact with game companies to discuss these issues: How do the game companies respond? Are they cooperative or do they fear that it could influence their business?
I believe many companies are aware of these issues. However, official statistics, current surveys, etc. are rarely published.
Ultimately, I see the operators and politicians as having the responsibility to take these risks seriously and seek solutions.
