Malware Is Targeting Gamers And Popular Video Games

CryptoLocker ransomware has been targeting and causing havoc on computers since 2013, but now the infamous ransomware is back and it has its aim set on those who play video games. The new malware, an encryption virus, targets many popular video games games including Call of Duty, World of Warcraft, League of Legends and Minecraft.

What is ransomware?

The entire premise of this particular ransomware targeting gamers is to resistrct or remove access to personal files.  The malware encrypts certain files on a system or device and then extorts a ransom to decrypt or unlock them.

Why is malware targeting gamers?

Gamers spend hundreds of hours playing video games and many of them take video games very seriously. This malware targets video gamers in order to affect their games and personal files. Plus, gamers mostly play games while connected to the internet and most devices automatically connect to the closest wi-fi hot spot. Once the victim’s game files have been encrypted, the victim will lose access to these files, along with all the progress and achievements they may have unlocked in all the games they have played.

How can gamers stay safe?

There are many things that gamers can do to keeponline accounts, including gaming accounts secure from this malware.

• Don’t share gaming accounts
• Us two factor authentication
• Download security software

What games are affected by ransomware?

Here is a list of games and software affected by this new malware that targets gamers:

1. Single User Games
   • Call of Duty
   • Star Craft 2
   • Diablo
   • Fallout 3
   • Minecraft
   • Half-Life 2
   • Dragon Age: Origins
   • The Elder Scrolls and specifically Skyrim related files
   • Star Wars: The Knights Of The Old Republic
   • WarCraft 3
   • F.E.A.R
   • Saint Rows 2
   • Metro 2033
   • Assassin’s Creed
   • S.T.A.L.K.E.R.
   • Resident Evil 4
   • Bioshock 2
2. Online Games
   • World of Warcraft
   • Day Z
   • League of Legends
   • World of Tanks
   • Metin2
3. Company Specific Files
   • Various EA Sports games
   • Various Valve games
   • Various Bethesda games
4. Gaming Software
   • Steam
5. Game Development Software
   • RPG Maker
   • Unity3D
   • Unreal Engine