In Japan, a hacker of Pokémon Sun save files was arrested
The Japanese cyber police have arrested a man for hacking and selling modified Pokémon Sun save files for Nintendo 3DS. The hacker offered gamers a version with 800 unlocked Pokémon for $35.
Pokémon Sun
Initially, the cyber patrol officers noticed his advertisement for selling a copy of the game on one of the online platforms. The description promised buyers access to unique pocket monsters. They could only be caught in specific locations — theaters or certain stores. The unusually large number of rare characters raised suspicions, prompting an investigation.
As a result, the illegal seller was apprehended. During a search, a computer and 37 game cartridges were seized from him. Nintendo was directly involved in the examination. The company confirmed that the seized game data had indeed been modified and edited.
The police also verified one sale of this save file to another Japanese person via the internet. However, the total number of such Pokémon Sun copies sold remains unknown.
The man is charged with violating Japan's Unfair Competition Prevention Act. He faces up to 5 years in prison, a fine exceeding $33,000, or both penalties.
This is not the first case of its kind in Japan. Previously, sellers who hacked Pokémon Sword and Shield and Pokémon Scarlet and Violet were arrested.
