Stay aware of Pirated Video Games this Christmas says IEAA

Sydney, Australia – 13 December, 2007 – Consumers are being urged to look carefully when buying computer and video games this Christmas season to avoid purchasing pirated product.  According to the Interactive Entertainment Association of Australia (IEAA), computer and video game piracy increases dramatically during the Christmas period and consumers need to take precautions to ensure that they do not support games piracy by purchasing illegal games.

According to Ron Curry, CEO of the IEAA, anti-piracy teams are in full force around busy shopping periods but it’s important for consumers to do their bit.

“Games piracy is an illegal activity and consumers need to be informed about how to avoid purchasing pirated products. Illegal games can be difficult to spot, so we have published a list of tips to help people make the right choices,” said Curry.

In addition to supporting illegal activity, shoppers may also be vulnerable to standard consumer protections such as warranty and games classification. Pirated games often do not carry appropriate classifications making it difficult for parents and other consumers to make informed choices about the right products to purchase.

“If you buy pirated product it is likely to be unclassified and without warranty and consumers need to be aware,” said Curry.

“Computer and video games are always very popular Christmas gifts, and we want to ensure that not only do consumers get their money’s worth but they are not supporting illegal activity by purchasing contraband games,” said Curry.

To report any illegal game activity, call 1800 20 40 19 or visit: anti-piracy@igea.net

5 Tips to Avoid Buying Pirated Games 

1. Buy from established outlets: Game prices are highly competitive. Some markets and newspaper classifieds advertise pirated games.

2. Check the trademark symbol or hologram: When buying second hand games, check the box, disc and manual for clearly printed trademark symbols or certificates of authenticity.

3. Coloured discs and DVDR: Games publishers do not produce games on DVDR or coloured discs. These are likely to pirated games.

4. Spelling and grammar: Check packaging for misspellings and grammatical inaccuracies – pirated games often contain such errors.

5. Multiple games on one disc: Several games on a single disc with no genuine box cover are likely to be pirated games. Copyright owners rarely produce compilation discs.

For more information about game piracy visit www.ieaa.com.au