Computer Hacker Steals Fantasy Game Items From RuneScape Customers

A computer hacker is accused of stealing virtual property from online fantasy gamers as a means of paying off real debt he had incurred.

Steven Burrell, 21, spent 16 months hacking into player profiles on the fantasy site RuneScape.com.  Some 200 million players use the RuneScape website.

Because the items in question existed in a “medieval fantasy world”, Burrell has not been charged with theft.  Instead, the 21-year-old has been charged with hacking. 

He pleaded guilty to two charges of unauthorised computer access though he is alleged to have modified up to 105 accounts without permission.

Prosecutor Russell Tyner said: 'By his own admission, he has made between £2,500 and £3,000. It is quite clear he has invested quite a lot of time and energy in this pursuit.

"His principal motivation was to gain kudos among people on the internet. Once a player has lost gaming resources, there is no redress."

- Jagajeet Chiba, Gambling911.com