Video games, even on personal computers, predate the worldwide spread of the internet. The same is true for computer viruses. Now that this amazing technology is used nearly everywhere, it comes as no surprise that malware and video games intervene with each other. So, how does malware spread via video games, and how should you protect yourself?
Some games garner more attention than others. In the case of malware spread, games that are highly sought after, are popular with online gamers and have in-game currencies are the most common targets.
For example, Minecraft, currently holding the record for most video game sales, is a common target. As the game is open to the modding community, many illegitimate and malicious mods are being made. Shady texture packs, weird shaders, and fake launchers often contain malicious files that will infect your device.
On the other hand, we have Roblux and Fortnite. These games feature in-game currencies that can be used to purchase various upgrades and cosmetics. That makes these games a target for malicious actors, who look for victims by offering V-bucks or Robux generators that do not generate anything and end up infecting their systems.
In most cases, malware infections are caused by the actions of the users themselves (downloading shady files and so on), but there have been cases of actual games being released with malware, even on major platforms.
Reputable Sources
If you tend to mod your games, protecting yourself from malware is crucial.
The first step is using reputable sources. Websites such as Nexus Mods are well-known repositories for trusted mods. Avoid shady websites and check the reputability of the mod you wish to use via a simple Google search.
Stay Skeptical
As the saying goes, if it’s too good to be true, it probably is. The same applies to various tools that make you aim better in FPS games or offer you free in-game currency. Getting better means practice and free money is a thing that simply does not exist, unfortunately. Avoid such offers as they will, most likely, infect your device.
Use a VPN
A VPN is a great tool for preserving your privacy and strengthening the security of your devices. While you use a VPN, your connection is encrypted as it goes through a “tunnel” between your device and the end server. This means that even if sensitive data is intercepted, it will not be readable.
Using a gaming VPN helps you avoid the theft of your crucial data, preserve your privacy, and even avoid DDoS attacks that can ruin your competitive gaming session.
Avoid Suspicious Links
Discord is very popular among gamers, and it is a breeding ground for hackers. If you frequent Discord, make sure not to open any suspicious-looking links, especially if they are sent as private messages seemingly out of nowhere.
All in all, vigilance is key if you wish to protect yourself from malware while gaming. Stay safe out there!
