Nov. 14, 2007 03:00 [PST] From: FINAL FANTASY XI

Accounts Banned (Nov. 14)

We would like to report the termination today of multiple accounts held by players involved in the usage of third-party tools or cheats, or engaged in RMT (Real Money Trading) activities. Based on the results of our investigation, around 4,400 PlayOnline accounts were terminated while around 1,210 accounts were temporarily suspended. Additionally, we have increased the number of mass bannings against certain PlayOnline violations in order to prevent illegal acts. Details of the violations are as follows: - Usage of tools that allow enhanced character movement. November 6, Approx. 290 cases November 9, Approx. 400 cases November 12, Approx. 300 cases - Usage of tools that circumvent game mechanics with respect to the timing of ability use, etc. in certain areas or at points where Notorious Monsters appear. November 14, Approx. 20 cases - Using cheats to automatically repeat a particular action. October 25, Approx. 760 cases November 2, Approx. 20 cases November 4, Approx. 780 cases - Gil and item exchange for real world money. October 26, Approx. 40 cases October 29, Approx. 10 cases November 14, Approx. 510 cases - Instances of areas or monster monopolization. October 26, Approx. 350 cases November 2, Approx. 40 cases November 4, Approx. 60 cases November 7, Approx. 280 cases - Usage of synthesis and auction houses for RMT activities. November 1, Approx. 1,690 cases - Accounts from people that were previously confirmed to have RMT connections, or that had violated the user agreements but re-subscribed to PlayOnline. November 14, Approx. 60 cases The termination of these accounts has led to the removal of approximately 2 billion gil from circulation. We would like to remind players that as well as adversely affecting game balance, the use of third-party tools or cheats can also have consequences that are not immediately obvious, such as introducing damaging viruses, and comprising the security of private account details. Usage of third-party tools will not be tolerated within FINAL FANTASY XI, and we will continue to severely penalize any players found to be in violation of the PlayOnline Member Agreement. As we continue to ensure a fun and balanced environment for FINAL FANTASY XI, we hope that our players enjoy the game as it was intended and take care to avoid involvement in activities that violate the PlayOnline Member Agreement. Thank you for your continued cooperation and understanding.