Just like movies, TV series, books, and other digital content, there's a lucrative market for hacked games so everyone can play them for free. Hacking is common on a variety of platforms, from computer and mobile device-based games to consoles. It's undeniable that downloading and running a pirated game copy can expose you to risks ranging from fines to harmful malware. Moreover, these are just some of the threats faced by players.
Malware
Threat actors can use a popular game and free content as a trick to get users to download malware. They can also do this by posting messages on social media, phishing emails, or even through search engine optimization for their own website or P2P torrents. Usually, malware is prepared to circumvent traditional security filters, or users may be asked to disable their antivirus programs entirely. Running too many permissions is also often requested. Malware can also be hidden in modifications, which are additional files necessary to continue the game.
The threat is very real. It was discovered in June 2021 that millions of computers were infected with malicious trojan software for a period of two years. Spread mostly through pirated games, these malwares have stolen over a million unique email addresses and 26 million logins, among other compromised data.
Other malware commonly spread with pirated games include:
- Crypto mining malware that can drain the victim's device power resulting in high electricity bills
- Banking Trojans designed to steal financial and personal information
- Keyloggers and information stealing software designed to remove all types of personal information from computers/devices
- Ransomware that can lock your computer, disable you and charge you a fee
- Botnet software to turn your computer/device into a zombie computer for use in other attacks
Adware
While not as dangerous as advanced malware, adware can be a nuisance for computer and mobile users. The constant pop-ups and new browser windows flood the victim with a torrent of videos and static ads, making it very difficult to use the device/computer normally. In 2020, 21 games were removed from the Google Play store for containing unauthorized adware.
Game not working as intended
Pirate games may seem like an excellent way to get popular games for free. But reality is often different from what it seems. The game; it may not work properly on your computer, console or device. There may be bugs or glitches that seriously impair game performance. The game may not be complete. If game developers are constantly checking software registration, the game may not work after a while. In some cases, compatibility issues may occur. For example, if users try to add pirated software to the Steam library, these software may be detected as games that are not included in Steam, and users may not be able to access all functions of the platform.
A gaming platform ban
There is also the possibility that the legitimate game developer may track pirated software to certain devices and computers and blacklist connected accounts partially or permanently. This means a risk, especially on gaming console platforms like Xbox, where service providers have been quite proactive with similar efforts in the past.
Unwanted attention of law enforcement
It is very important to remember that playing pirated games is illegal. Depending on the jurisdiction of the region where you live, you may face fines or even jail time if you are found to be using pirated game software.
Important tips to avoid game risks
The good news is that many of these risks are not difficult to avoid. The simplest option is to stay away from torrent websites and always buy video games from official stores. This reduces the risk of malware and adware, poor game performance, and possible legal issues. Other important tips for avoiding gaming risks are:
Always run an antivirus from a reputable security provider on all computers and devices. Never disable the antivirus program.
Double-check the recommended security settings on any gaming platform you use, such as Steam, Twitch, and Discord.
Never click on links in spam emails. Always visit the legitimate game developer's website or reputable marketplaces such as the Apple App Store or Google Play.
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