Person Arrested for Threatening VTuber
Japanese entertainment start-up ANYCOLOR, the company behind the VTuber agency Nijisanji, announced the arrest of an individual on December 3 for business obstruction. According to ITMedia, the suspect is accused of sending multiple threatening messages targeting the company and one of its affiliated VTubers.
Person Arrested for Threatening VTuber
ANYCOLOR’s official statement revealed that the suspect had repeatedly used anonymous internet forums and the company’s inquiry form to send threatening messages.
In these messages, the individual expressed a personal grudge against the VTuber in question and issued threats against both the VTuber and ANYCOLOR. Upon discovering the threats, ANYCOLOR swiftly contacted the police and filed both civil and criminal complaints against the suspect.
In their statement, ANYCOLOR emphasized their commitment to holding the suspect legally accountable and ensuring a safe environment where fans can enjoy their content without fear. They thanked users who provided information about the case through the report form.
However, they strongly urged fans not to contact streamers regarding the incident, whether through social media or YouTube comments, and discouraged the spread of rumors about the case or the identity of the victim.
The Ongoing Issue of VTuber Harassment
Online harassment targeting VTubers remains a pressing issue. In May 2024, ANYCOLOR and other companies related to VTubers and influencers in Japan formed a subcommittee to address cyberbullying.
However, VTubers face unique challenges when pursuing legal action against their harassers. In defamation cases, VTuber avatars may be perceived as fictional characters, allowing the defense to argue that malicious comments and threats are aimed at the avatar, not the real person behind it.
In an October 31 report on the first meeting of their anti-cyberbullying subcommittee, ANYCOLOR reiterated their dedication to using various legal methods to identify and take action against individuals who defame, harass, or threaten VTubers. In this case, the company has pursued charges on the grounds of “obstruction of business.”
via Você Sabia Anime