Nintendo Switch users across the web have reported a multitude of unauthorized attempts to access their accounts over the past several weeks. As of now, this is an ongoing issue with Nintendo fans. However, Nintendo has yet to comment on what’s causing all these issues.
How Pervasive And Dangerous Is This?
Some users are being notified of single attempts on their profile while others have received a string of warning messages from Nintendo over the course of twenty-four hours. Nintendo’s security system reports these attempts as being from nearly anywhere in the world. Reports state that various users’ accounts were accessed from anywhere as close as their home countries to far-flung regions such as Russia and Chile.
The founder of the Nintendo fansite LootPots, Twitter user Pixelpar, stated that his account was accessed “numerous times overnight” yesterday. Other members of the online community, such as a staff member of Eurogamer, have reported similar encounters.
I suspect Nintendo may have had a major security breach. My account was accessed numerous times overnight.
My password is a unique string and my PC is definitely clean (not that I ever login via it).
Lots of similar reports on Reddit/twitter.
Unlink PayPal & enable 2FA folks!
— Pixelpar (@pixelpar) April 19, 2020
Unauthorized access has resulted in illegally tapped PayPal and credit accounts. Some cases included the accounts being used to purchase Fortnite‘s VBuck currency. Even Marooners’ Rock Editor Alex has reported his wife had her account access and Vbucks purchased. As well as Andrew our Senior Editor reporting that his girlfriend’s account has been logged into.
Nintendo’s Possible Protection
Although Nintendo has not yet formally acknowledged this issue, they have encouraged some preventative measures. In months past and especially now, Nintendo strongly encourages users to enable enhanced account verification. Nintendo promises that the process is quick and secure, using Google’s free Authenticator app through iPhone and Android devices. Even if you do not use enhanced authentication through Nintendo, it may be a good idea to check your account activity.
Sign into your Nintendo Account online and check your Sign-In History. This will display any locations across the globe where your account was accessed. You can find it under “Sign-In and Security Settings” on the Nintendo Account website.
Good luck and stay safe out there. As if a global pandemic were not bad enough… Hopefully, your Nintendo account has not be compromised so you can enjoy your Nintendo Switch games.
