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Japan outlaws resale of game keys along with tools, programs and services which alter save data

Update: It will only be illegal to sell keys that were acquired illicitly.

The error in the original report comes via a mistranslation:

Original story: Quick bit of news for you: it is now illegal to resell digital game keys in Japan.

Japan has made reselling software product keys online without the creator's permission illegal.

It is also illegal to offer tools and programs which alter save data, such as Cyber Save Editor for PS4, or provide a service which will modify a game's save data.

The new rules went into effect during December as part of a revision to the Unfair Competition Prevention Act (thanks, GI.biz).

Those found to be in violation of the new amendments could be subject to civil damages, face a fine of up to ¥5 million ($46,447), or serve up to five years in prison.

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Stephany Nunneley-Jackson

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Stephany is VG247’s News Editor, with 22 years experience (with 15 of them at VG247). With a brain that lacks adhesive ducks, the ill-tempered, chaotic neutral fembot does her best to bring you the most interesting gaming news. She is also unofficially the site’s Lord of the Rings/Elder Scrolls Editor.
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