Chinese police, in collaboration with Tencent, have successfully apprehended a group of individuals involved in the distribution of illegal Valorant cheats. This crackdown on illegal software marks a significant milestone in the country’s fight against cheating in online gaming.
The joint operation, which lasted for a month, resulted in the arrest of 10 individuals and the discovery of transactions amounting to over CNY¥30 million (approximately US$4.1 million). This case is particularly noteworthy as it is the first instance of an “AI cheat case” in China.
The investigation was initiated in mid-August when the Yujiang Public Security Network Security Brigade detected suspicious activities related to the manufacturing and sale of game “plug-ins” during an online inspection. Following this, raids were conducted in various locations, including Zhejiang and Chongqing, on September 15.
During the raids, two authors of the plug-in program and eight agents were apprehended. The authorities seized substantial evidence, including 17 computers used for committing crimes, 11 mobile phones, card secret generation programs, plug-in source codes, and plug-in auxiliaries. Additionally, hardware associated with the production of illegal plug-ins was confiscated.
Riot Games expressed their gratitude to Yujiang Public Security for their diligent efforts in combating the distribution of illegal software. They acknowledged the significance of this operation, as it represents the first criminal case in China targeting the production and sales of “AI game plug-ins.”
Riot Games reaffirmed their commitment to maintaining a fair and competitive gaming environment by actively combating cheating and any behavior that compromises the gaming experience for players.
This successful crackdown serves as a warning to those who engage in the distribution of cheats in Valorant and other online games. Chinese authorities, in collaboration with gaming companies like Tencent, are determined to create a level playing field for all players and ensure a fair gaming experience.
Source: ONEESPORTS
