YouTuber Who Filmed a Video Using a Game Console Faces Prison Sentence

A YouTuber promoting Android-based handheld consoles in Italy is facing a serious copyright investigation due to his gaming console videos. Authorities raided his home and seized dozens of his devices on the grounds that he was promoting pirated games. The investigation could lead to a prison sentence.

Game Console Videos Could Lead to Jail

The creator, known on YouTube as “Once Were Nerd,” is known for his videos promoting Android-based handheld consoles like Powkiddy and TrimUI. These devices have become quite popular recently because they can run retro console games at a low cost. However, many come with illegally pre-installed games.

The Italian financial police, Guardia di Finanza, raided the YouTuber’s home in April. Authorities accused the creator of promoting pirated content on devices from brands like Anbernic. More than 30 handheld consoles were seized, and correspondence with the manufacturers was also requested.

The creator stated that he had not engaged in any illegal activity and cooperated with authorities throughout the process. However, while emulation software is legal, pre-installed games can create serious copyright issues. Therefore, under Italian copyright law, a prison sentence of up to three years is possible.

The channel is also being considered for closure. While the investigation is currently ongoing, authorities may consider shutting down the channel. While companies like Nintendo and Sony have reportedly filed complaints, this information is being kept secret until the investigation is complete. Italy, known for its strict stance against copyright infringement, is taking a similar approach in this case.

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