Duluth Police Warn Not to Download a Nintendo Switch Emulator

The Duluth Police took to social media to warn the public not to download an emulator for the popular Nintendo Switch video game system.

An emulator is a software program that you would download and install on your computer that would allow you to play Nintendo Switch games, the FTC warns that "emulators, sometimes with Nintendo branding, say they can run Switch’s games on your desktop. But there is no legit Nintendo Switch emulator. It’s a scam."

On top of not working and being a scam, the software that was installed on the computer can be malware or ransomware, which can potentially destroy your computer or steal your personal information.

The FTC provides these tip for avoiding the scam:

• Don’t download anything that says it’s a Nintendo Switch emulator.
• Don’t complete a survey to get an “unlock code.” That’s a red flag for a scam.
• Keep your security software current. Set it to update automatically. Installing unknown programs can lead to malware.
• Play Nintendo Switch at your friend’s house until you’re able to buy the real one yourself.