Italian YouTuber Investigated Over Pirated ROM Reviews

Francesco Salicini, known as Once Were Nerd, is under investigation by Italy's Guardia di Finanza for allegedly promoting pirated copyrighted material through his YouTube reviews of retro gaming handhelds, including devices from Anbernic and Powkiddy. In April, authorities raided Salicini's home, seizing over 30 consoles and his phone, citing potential violations of Article 171 ter of Italy's Copyright Law, with possible penalties of up to three years in jail and €15,000 in fines. The investigation involves claims that the devices included unauthorized ROMs from companies such as Sony and Nintendo. Salicini insists his reviews were impartial and not sponsored, denying any promotion of piracy. Italian law allows authorities to withhold details of the charges until the investigation concludes, after which the case could go to trial or be dismissed. The case underscores the legal uncertainties facing content creators who cover emulation and retro gaming.