Activision, the publisher behind the popular Call of Duty franchise, has won a lawsuit against cheat makers EngineOwning and Garnatz Enterprise Ltd, along with 11 individuals. The federal court ruling awarded Activision £11.3 million ($14.4 million) in damages.
The lawsuit, filed in early 2022, accused the companies and individuals, including Valentin Rick, Leonard Bugla, and Alexander Kleeman, of profiting from cheats that provided an unfair competitive advantage to players. These cheats included auto-aim and auto-fire software, which players could purchase to gain an edge in the game.
Activision stated that its aim was to put an end to the distribution and sale of malicious software products that enable players to gain unfair advantages. EngineOwning, described as a German business entity, was accused of developing, selling, and distributing cheats and hacks for popular online multiplayer games, specifically the Call of Duty series.
The court ruling in favor of Activision highlights the publisher’s commitment to maintaining fair gameplay and ensuring a level playing field for all players. Cheating not only undermines the integrity of the game but also negatively impacts the experience for legitimate players.
This victory sends a strong message to cheat makers and individuals involved in promoting unfair practices in the gaming community. It serves as a deterrent to those seeking to profit from cheating and aims to protect the integrity of competitive gaming.
As the gaming industry continues to evolve, developers and publishers are taking stronger measures to combat cheating and maintain fair gameplay. This lawsuit is a significant step in that direction, demonstrating the resolve of companies like Activision to protect their games and the experiences of their player base.
Source: Eurogamer
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