Around 5.5 billion euros are expected to be generated from video games in Germany, Austria and Switzerland in 2022 (source: Statista). The industry has once again received enormous tailwind, not least due to the corona pandemic.
But just like with popular films or series, there is a booming market for pirated copies of games. Software piracy and the misuse of downloadable content is widespread on all platforms, from PC to mobile to consoles.
Most pirated copies have digital rights management (DRM), a technology used to protect content, cracked. This allows users to play these titles without purchasing them. There have been cases of hackers handing out free copies of popular games before their release date. It’s also important to “keep your eyes open” when it comes to gaming apps and “mods” for popular games.
“Computers infected with malicious code, account or identity theft are three of the possible risks that users of pirated copies expose themselves to,” “Computer and video games should always be purchased through official channels.
Thorsten Urbanski, spokesman for ESET.
Our tip: Many platforms run regular discount campaigns, where popular titles are usually available at significantly lower prices.”
Be careful with fake apps
Hyped games are also a popular basis for criminals to make malicious copies. They try to lure gamers into the malicious code trap with fake offers for popular games that are not available on an official platform. An example of this is the popular TV series “Squid Game”.
At the end of 2021, criminals tried to spread malware among Android users using a supposed wallpaper app . There are also always apps in circulation that promise new content or gimmicks related to a popular game. “Such applications are extremely dangerous for users and usually install spyware or dangerous malware on the device,” explains Urbanski. “If in doubt, user reviews should be checked very carefully,” recommends the expert.
Security risk: Old gaming accounts
Gamers always have to create accounts on different platforms for their hobby. Over the years, this has resulted in a large number of accounts that contain sensitive data and sometimes also payment information. Reports of data theft are becoming public again and again.
Recently, user data of 69 million players of the browser game “Neopets” was stolen by hackers . Email addresses, dates of birth, home countries, names and gender details fell into the wrong hands as a result of this leak. The thieves offered their loot for sale on the Darknet.
“If accounts are no longer used, users should clean up and delete them regularly.” “In addition, many accounts can be additionally secured with two-factor authentication. Then, when you log in, a second factor is requested in addition to the password – for example a pin code sent via SMS or generated via an app.”
Thorsten Urbanski.
Dangers of pirated copies
Malware getting onto the device is probably one of the biggest risks. Criminals hide malware either on relevant sites for illegal software or in the cracked versions. Often the user is even asked to deactivate their virus protection so that the pirated copy can be used. The danger is more than real: in 2021, statistics were published that over a two-year period, millions of PCs were compromised by Trojans, spread mainly through pirated games.
Adware is a big nuisance, especially for PC and smartphone users. Although it is not as dangerous as malware, constant advertisements, pop-ups or new browser windows make it difficult to use the devices and can pose a serious security risk if the wrong click is made.
Pirated content is illegal and can result in fines or prison sentences
But in addition to the digital ones, there are also very real dangers. Pirated software is illegal and can result in fines or prison sentences if use of cracked software can be traced back to specific users.
Safety tips for gamers
- Install updates regularly: Not only the operating system, but also games can contain security gaps and vulnerabilities. Therefore, you should regularly install the updates offered by the manufacturers and developers.
- Use a security solution: Gamers should also use a security solution and never turn it off to play. We recommend an antivirus solution, such as ESET Internet Security, that has a gaming mode. This is perfectly tailored to the needs of gamers.
- Rely on two-factor authentication: This approach requires a second factor in addition to the password so that unauthorized persons cannot use the account if the access data is lost. This can be a number created via SMS, email or through a generator app. Examples include the Steam Guard Code or the Blizzard Authenticator.
- Pay attention to the source: Games should only be downloaded from official sources. These include the app stores such as Google Play or the large gaming platforms such as Steam or Origin. If the origin is unknown or the game even comes from an illegal download, you should not purchase it.
- Online payments only via secured browser: If possible, users should make their payments via online platforms or shops, just like bank transactions, via a particularly secure browser. In this way, users ensure that communication between the keyboard and browser is encrypted and cannot be read by third parties.
- Avoid unwanted in-app purchases: Many games offer digital enhancements or expansions that are not included in the original purchase price. To ensure that users do not fall into a cost trap, purchases within the apps should be protected with a password. This approach is particularly recommended if children also have access to these games.
The current article is available on WeliveSecurity
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