Related Stories
South Korean Hacker Faces 1 Year in Jail

Best to keep the cheating and scamming to in-game opportunities and not try it in the real world. A 28-year-old South Korean faces a year in prison as well as two years of probation after hacking Overwatch and selling the hacks.

 

The convicted hacker garnered 200 million Korean won, or $180,000 in US currency, from Overwatch hacks. South Korea passed a law in 2017 that criminalized creating and distributing video game hacks. Hackers can face up to five years in jail and up to $40.000 to $50,000 in fines.

 

Thirteen Overwatch hackers and match-givers arrested in January. The man is one of three hackers convicted since the arrest in January. One hacker received two years’ probation and the other was fined a 10 Million won fine. Ten more wait for sentencing.

 

Hackers are just the beginning of gaming developer Blizzard’s crack down efforts within its servers. While Blizzard has been working with Seoul National Police Agency to stop hackers on their games, the developer created a in-game system to restrict bad behavior from players in hopes to build a more positive gamin atmosphere. Blizzard has gone as far as ingraining a new reward system to encourage positive playing habits amongst its players.

 

The good behavior will be rewarded by what Blizzard has dubbed “endorsements.” These recognitions will result in extra XP, according to engadget.

 

Overwatch is set to increase its competitive gaming earnings. Players will be able to earn at least $50,000 a year in the esports Overwatch League with the opportunity for year-long contracts. The champions will bring home $1 million according to reports; lower level players have an opportunity to make money as well through twitch and other means. Players with Twitch followings have made $3,000 to $10,000 a month in the past.