Hackers have launched a mass campaign to infect gamer computers via popular game torrents to distribute the Monero mining program.
Mass Game Torrent Attack
According to a Kaspersky report, hackers used popular game torrents such as Garry’s Mod, Dyson Sphere Program, and Universe Sandbox to spread the Monero mining application. The hackers could activate this application remotely, exploiting the use of cracked installers and disabled antivirus software.
Targeting Gamers with Powerful PCs
The mining program targets processors with 8 cores or more for maximum efficiency. This is why gamers, who typically own more powerful hardware, became the primary target.
Source and Location of the Attack
The majority of infections were reported in Russia, with additional cases in Kazakhstan, Brazil, Germany, and Belarus. Although the team behind the infection remains unidentified, Kaspersky suggests a Russian group is responsible, given the use of the Russian language in some files and the high infection rate in Russia.
Cryptocurrency mining malware continues to pose a threat to users, especially those downloading games and software via torrents. Gamers should remain vigilant and monitor the security of their devices.
