A precedent has been set: gold in RuneScape recognized as tangible property by a UK court.

Precedent Set: UK Court Recognizes RuneScape Gold as Tangible Property

The UK Court of Appeal has ruled that in-game currency in an MMO can be considered property, and its theft can be a criminal offense. The decision was made in the case of a former Jagex developer accused of stealing gold from RuneScape. The damage is estimated at £543,123, based on the value of in-game bonds.

Previously, the lower court acquitted the defendant, considering the in-game gold to be merely information. However, the appellate judges overturned this decision, stating that the currency has real value and is traded both within the game and outside of it, which falls under the definition of "intangible property."

This case sets an important precedent that could influence the legal status of virtual items and currencies in the future.