Gamers better be on their security game with a new malware attack spreading via popular game updates.
Phishing scams intent on getting gamers suckered into downloading destructive game malware are going after gamers on some of the most widely engaged titles including Minecraft, FIFA, Roblox, Far Cry, and Call of Duty.
Cyberthreats aimed directly at gamers are increasing simply because the scam is working in this niche genre of connected people.
How gamers are targeted with malware
The scheme is sneaky and can fool the best of the best gamers. Hackers bait gamers with links to malicious files discussed as game updates. In the process, they are able to get gamers to surrender user names and passwords.
Next, in many cases, a payload of password-stealing malware called Trojan-PSW swipes credentials, payment information and additional gaming logins.
In the past year ending in June 2022, a security firm detected 6,491 gamers affected by malicious files. That’s a big number for some of the most sophisticated connected crowd – gamers.
How to avoid the game update scam
- Set all your gaming devices and consoles to enhanced two-factor authentication.
- Avoid linking from a game chat, text, email or social post to download any game update. Only get updates from official game stores and sources.
- Keep operating software up to date.
- If you think you may have clicked a link on a PC or Mac-based game, make sure to run up-to-date antivirus protection to scan for threats and intrusions. You can see the winners from my 2022 best antivirus security protection reviews here.
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