Japanese Teen Arrested for Hacking Bandai Namco Streaming Service

A 15-year-old boy from Tokorozawa, Saitama Prefecture, has been arrested in Japan on suspicion of hacking into Bandai Namco's anime streaming service, Bandai Channel. The incident, which occurred in November 2025, led to the deletion of 46,812 user accounts and a temporary suspension of all services by operator Bandai Namco Filmworks.

Investigators allege the teenager used compromised member accounts to gain access to the platform's servers. He is reportedly accused of using ChatGPT to generate malicious code, enabling the automated mass deletion of user accounts. The suspect also allegedly obtained victims' email addresses and nicknames, though police have stated these personal details have not been found to be used for further illegal purposes.

During questioning, the boy admitted to the facts of the case. He stated he had been exposed to computers since elementary school and had acquired his technical skills through self-study. He reportedly denied acting out of any dissatisfaction with Bandai Namco.

The case highlights the dual nature of generative AI in cybersecurity. While tools like ChatGPT can aid development and learning, their misuse can lower the technical barrier for cyberattacks and simplify the creation of automated malicious scripts.