Regarding the computer virus that caused the defacement of our websites

Thank you for visiting Game Arts Official Website.

We would like to report that part of the websites we host was found to have been defaced by an unauthorized third party. And, it was discovered there is a possibility that the computers of those who visited the following websites during the relevant time stated below might be infected by computer virus.

Now we have completed our investigation/ verification of the situation and checking up the websites, so we have resumed providing the website service and are pleased to confirm that it is safe to access all of our websites now.
We will continue to take all possible measures to ensure the security and maintenance of our websites, and we deeply apologize for the inconvenience caused to our customers if any.

The websites which were defaced are as follows:

  • Shadow Walker Official Website: http://shadow.gamearts.jp/
  • The Magic Obelisk Official Website: http://magic-obelisk.gamearts.com/

The period when the websites were defaced:

From 5:37 p.m. on January 8, 2010 through 10:10 a.m. on January 12, 2010.

The facts of the situation:

At 10:10 a.m. on January 12, 2010: the virus was reported by the web team of GAME ARTS for the first time.
At 10:12 a.m. on January 12, 2010: the relevant web services were temporarily stopped.
At 10:50 a.m. on January 12, 2010: we verified and reported the virus to the outsourcing website design company.
At 4:45 p.m. on January 12, 2010: we removed the defaced web programs and resumed the services of the relevant websites.
At 6:00 p.m. on January 13, 2010: we posted the notice regarding the website defacement on the relevant websites.

The information about the virus that caused the website defacement:

When an altered webpage is displayed, there is a possibility that your computer may be infected by the type of computer virus called “0808 (including “Gumblar”). And, there is a possibility that a customer using an infected computer will be directed to a web site without any intentional attempt, and the virus could cause further damage such as recognizing and stealing an administrative password if an infected computer is used to manage websites.

A method of checking virus infection and removing viruses:

We recommend that you access the following webpage of Trend Micro Incorporated and use their free online malware scanning service.
http://www.trendflexsecurity.jp/housecall/index.html?WT.ac=JPclusty_onlinescan
*The webpage above is in Japanese.

Contact info for inquiries:
GAME ARTS User Support +81-3-3984-1136
*Please note that our business hours are from 10:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m., Monday through Friday.