Player guide
Are RuneScape private servers legal? Rules and risks for players
Short answer: private servers are unofficial and not authorised by Jagex. Playing one is mostly a risk to your time and money rather than a legal problem, while running one carries more risk. This is a general overview, not legal advice.
What Jagex's rules say
RuneScape and its art, music and code belong to Jagex. Jagex's terms forbid creating or using unofficial servers and clients for its games, and it has taken action against some large servers and sellers in the past, usually aimed at owners making money rather than at players.
Risks for players
- Official account: a private server has no link to your Jagex account, so playing one doesn't touch your official account, unless you type your official login into it, which you should never do.
- Shutdowns: a server can close overnight, after a takedown or when the owner loses interest. Progress and donations go with it.
- Security: the bigger everyday risk is a malicious client. See how to pick a safe RSPS.
Risks for owners
Running a server, and especially taking money for it, uses someone else's intellectual property. Owners should expect takedown requests and get local advice before charging players.
It depends where you live
Copyright and computer-use laws differ by country. If you need a firm answer for your situation, ask a lawyer where you live.
Frequently asked questions
Is it illegal to play an RSPS?
Private servers are not authorised by Jagex and break its terms. Action has historically targeted owners and sellers rather than players, but laws differ by country. This is not legal advice.
Can I get banned on RuneScape for playing an RSPS?
Your official account is not connected to a private server. Just never enter your official login details into a private server's client or website.
Why do RSPS servers shut down?
Takedown requests, hosting costs, staff leaving or loss of interest. Treat progress and donations as temporary.