Nintendo warns fans to “immediately” stop using old hardware

Nintendo has issued a warning to fans to “immediately” stop using some of its older devices. If you’ve been using a NES, SNES, N64, Game Cube, Game Boy, DS, 3DS, Wii, Wii U, or any Nintendo game console from last year, you don’t have to worry. This time, “Hardware” doesn’t refer to the console. However, if you’re using the “Nintendo Wi-Fi USB Connector (NTR-010)” or the “Nintendo Wi-Fi Network Adapter (WAP-001)” — released in 2005 and 2008, respectively — Nintendo suggests you stop because security problems.

The warning comes from the official Nintendo Japan websiteso it is possible that some meaning and vital context may be lost in translation, but it is clear that Nintendo warns owners of these items against using them, especially on an ongoing basis.

“Regarding the Nintendo Wi-Fi USB Connector (NTR-010)” and “Nintendo Wi-Fi Network Adapter (WAP-001)” released by Nintendo Wi-Fi in 2005 and 2008, please stop using them from the point of view of security protection and switch to commercially available network hardware,” says Nintendo. “These products have been around for more than 10 years since their launch, and we’ve confirmed that there are following concerns when using them consistently.

The statement continues:

“If you continue to use these devices, there is a risk that they may be accessed illegally from outside, or the connected terminal may be infected with a computer virus, etc. For customers who are currently using them, please stop using them immediately and switch to available network equipment commercially for security protection. We apologize for any inconvenience this may cause and ask for your understanding and cooperation.”

It’s unclear why this statement was suddenly issued, as these devices have certainly been vulnerable from a security point of view for a while, but it is clear that the issue was recently introduced to Nintendo’s intent. As always, we will keep you updated as the situation evolves. In the meantime, for more coverage on all things Nintendo, click over here.