The gaming industry continues to be a hotspot for cybercriminals looking to target unsuspecting players with malware and unwanted software. A recent report from Kaspersky revealed that a total of 384,224 users encountered gaming-related threats between July 01, 2021, and June 30, 2022. These threats were distributed across 91,984 files in 28 different games or game series.
The report highlighted the most common types of malware that gamers may come across while playing online. It focused on PC game-related threats, miner attacks, threats disguised as game cheats, and stealers. The analysis also delved into the most active malware families, providing detailed insights into their characteristics.
One alarming trend noted in the report was the increase in programs designed to steal secrets from users. In the first half of 2022, there was a 13% rise in the number of users targeted by secret-stealing malware. Trojan-PSW was identified as the primary culprit behind 77% of secret-stealing malware infections.
When it comes to the types of threats faced by gamers, downloaders were found to be the most prevalent, accounting for 88.56% of malicious and unwanted software spread under the guise of popular games. Adware, Trojans, and DangerousObject followed as the next most common threats.
The report also highlighted the top five PC games or game series used as bait in attacks targeting the largest number of users: Minecraft, Roblox, Need for Speed, Grand Theft Auto, and Call of Duty. Additionally, phishing scams targeting gamers and esports fans were identified as a significant threat.
To help players protect themselves from these threats, Kaspersky recommended using two-factor authentication, creating strong and unique passwords, and only downloading games from official stores. These measures can help safeguard personal information, financial data, and gaming accounts from falling into the hands of cybercriminals.
While Kaspersky’s report sheds light on the ongoing risks faced by gamers, it is not the only one to highlight the growing threat landscape in the gaming industry. A separate report from cybersecurity firm Akamai indicated a 167% increase in cyber-attacks targeting the gaming sector over the past year.
As the gaming industry continues to expand and evolve, it is crucial for players to remain vigilant and take proactive steps to protect themselves from cyber threats. By following cybersecurity best practices and staying informed about the latest risks, gamers can enjoy their favorite pastime without falling victim to malicious actors.