NEWS - Wednesday, February 9, 2005
Tecmo Sues Hackers
Tecmo Sues Hackers Not so fast, Ninja-breakers. By David Adams February 9, 2005 - Tecmo has initiated a lawsuit against individuals associated with ninjahacker.net, a web-based forum which hosted discussion on hacking into videogames, including Tecmo's Ninja Gaiden and the Dead or Alive titles for Xbox. The hacks made game characters appear nude, among other modifications. The suit, brought in a Chicago federal court, names site administrators Mike Greiling from Eden Prairie, MN, and Will Glynn from Davie, FL among the defendants, as well as a number of unannounced individuals. Among the charges are copyright infringement, circumventing copyright protection systems in violation of the Digital Millennium Copyright Act (DMCA), and passing off and unfair competition in violation of both federal copyright law and the laws of the State of Illinois. The defendants are accused of "hosting and contributing content to a forum created to foster and facilitate the knowing infringement of Tecmo's proprietary software for its video game titles," according to an announcement made by the company today. "We are known for being a technological leader in the video game industry, and we clearly support and respect the innovations which push the boundaries of gaming. However, we believe it is our duty to uphold the integrity of our work," John Inada, General Manager for Tecmo, said. "Hacking of this kind will not be tolerated and we intend to take all necessary measures to protect our intellectual property." Tecmo is seeking injunctive relief against the defendants, as well as damages.Source: http://www.ign.com
