Hackers Found A New way To Sneak Malware Into Your Computer Using Minecraft Updates
The video game industry has become one of the biggest beneficiaries of the pandemic as millions of people picked up the habit of playing video games to escape the isolation and boredom of the COVID-19 lockdowns.
Since then, the gaming industry has been expanding rapidly, and the number of video game-related cyberthreats and attacks has significantly risen in recent months, research has revealed.
A new report from Kaspersky suggests that popular games like Minecraft are used as bait by cybercriminals, from phishing scams to malware downloads.
Based on stats collected by the security firm between July 2021 and July 2022, Minecraft-related files accounted for roughly 25% of malicious files, followed by FIFA (11%), Roblox (9.5%), Far Cry (9.4%), and Call of Duty (9%).
They also spotted other games with a notable percentage of abuse, Grand Theft Auto, Need for Speed, and The Sims. Minecraft also topped the list of mobile malware threats, as the game accounts for 40% of the incidents, followed by FIFA (5%), Roblox (10%), PUBG (10%), and GTA (15%).
Hackers Embed Malicious Files on Untrusted Platforms
The risk of downloading games from websites other than a device playstore is high. Most of these platforms carry malicious files that steal sensitive information like data login information or passwords.
Furthermore, in an attempt to download games for free and find modes or cheats, gamers tend to lose money or their account.
The Kaspersky report reveals hackers use Trojan-PSW (Password Stealing Ware) malware, which gathers user credentials, Trojan-Banker, which steals payment data; and Trojan-Game Thief, which collects login information from gaming accounts.
From July 1, 2021, to June 30, 2022, the Kaspersky security solution detected that more than 3,705 unique malicious files affected 6,491 users
Key Steps To Staying Safe
With the boom in the gaming industry, we expect to see new ways of abusing, which is why it is important to stay protected. Here are a few tips to help you stay safe while gaming.
Protect your account with two-factor authentication and use unique passwords. Always download your game from official stores like Steam, PlayStation Store, and Origin.
Beware of phishing campaigns and avoid opening links received by email or in-game chat. Double check the website address asking for your username and password, as it might be fake. Keep your operating system and other software up to date.
