TSU Legislator Chen Chien-ming (
Chen made the remark during a public hearing attended by software dealers and players at the Legislative Yuan.
To participate in an online game, players have to purchase the software and a certain amount of online time from a dealer, which is usually the Internet service provider for the specific game. After the players install the software on their computers and agree to the terms of the software contract, they can engage in online games with players from around the world.
During the game, players can earn "virtual credits" by defeating other players or earning extra bonuses. All the credits and bonuses are recorded by the software dealer.
Chen said that the business of online gaming is growing at a fast pace. Players from anywhere can communicate, fight or trade virtual credits with each other through games on the Internet.
He said that there have recently been more arguments between online game players, hackers and software dealers but there is no authority to take charge of the situation and resolve such disputes.
"For example, if a hacker breaks into the Internet service provider's system and steals an online player's virtual credits which the player earned, the victim will not be able to ask for help," Chen said.
"Obviously, we'll have more and more problems like this and I think it's time for the government to come up with a solution."
According to Chen, the most common argument between the players and Internet service providers is over the software contract agreement.
"The agreement window will pop up when you finish installing the software on your computer," he explained. "However, you've paid for the software already. If you decide to quit, you will not be able to get your money back. Is that fair?" Chen said.
Wu Cheng-hsin (吳正信), an online player, said that these contracts are designed to protect software dealers since they preserve the right to modify or change the contract under any circumstances.
"To me, these contracts are like `players shouldn't have any right to fight back even if the software sucks,'" Wu said. "Is that kind of contract called a `contract?'"
Prosecutor Chou Hwai-lian (周懷廉) from the Ministry of Justice said that the ministry considers stealing virtual credits a crime.
"A player needs to pay to get access to the game. As a result, the `virtual credits' he earns will be regarded as his personal property," Chou explained.
Lawyer Chuang Juei-hsiung (
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