Square Enix announced that a crackdown on counterfeit merchandise in China's Guangdong province has resulted in criminal charges against several individuals. Counterfeit version of games Final Fantasy and NieR:Automata's products were confiscated.
Square Enix Files Charges Against Counterfeit Distributors in China
Will Firmly Deal With
Any Infringements on Square Enix's IPs
- [1] Image from Square Enix
Square Enix disclosed in a press release yesterday that criminal charges have been filed against individuals distributing counterfeit game merch. The charges were officially filed in May 2023 and involved six individuals engaged in distributing the counterfeits to retailers, along with three individuals involved in the manufacturing process. The company stated that it "will firmly deal with any infringements."
The legal authorities in China took action against these individuals, responding to allegations made by multiple Japanese and Chinese companies. The charges pertained to the manufacture and distribution of counterfeit versions of Square Enix's products, including those of franchises like Final Fantasy and NieR:Automata. Both games are registered trademarks of Square Enix Co., Ltd.
The bootlegs were sold on major distribution platforms not only in China but also in Japan and various Western countries. The charges were initiated following a request from Square Enix, based on information gathered through independent investigations and collaboration with investigation firms and the company's "industry peers".
Square Enix wrote, "The Company will continue to dedicate itself to the protection of its intellectual property so that it may provide better products and services while maintaining and enhancing its brand image. It reminds its customers and distributors to remain vigilant and protect themselves against counterfeits."
Source:
[1] Square Enix: Criminal counterfeiting charges in China
