anti-cheat systems Archives

AppWizard

July 8, 2025

Gamers hacked playing Call of Duty: WWII—PC version temporarily taken offline

The PC version of Call of Duty: WWII has been temporarily taken offline due to a serious security concern involving a remote code execution (RCE) vulnerability. This flaw allows attackers to execute malicious code on players' machines without consent, leading to unauthorized control during multiplayer sessions. Exploits reported include opening command prompts, sending messages via Notepad, forcing remote shutdowns, and changing desktop wallpapers. The vulnerability is particularly concerning for PC gamers using Microsoft’s Game Pass subscription service, as it stems from the game's reliance on peer-to-peer networking. Activision is speculated to be enhancing its anti-cheat systems in response, but the effectiveness of updates to address the RCE vulnerability is uncertain.

AppWizard

July 6, 2025

‘There are no plans to drop support for SteamOS’: The Finals devs commit to Steam Deck and Linux players despite new kernel-level anti-cheat

Embark Studios announced updates for their game, The Finals, focusing on enhanced security measures against cheating through the introduction of kernel-level anti-cheat technology in the 7.3 patch. This technology aims to combat cheats that use kernel-drivers to manipulate game memory. The developers confirmed their commitment to supporting players on Steam Deck and Linux platforms, stating there are no plans to drop support for SteamOS/Proton/Wine and/or SteamDeck. They have been collaborating with CodeWeavers since Season 5 to ensure quality assurance for each release. Players are encouraged to report any issues they encounter. The interest in SteamOS and other Linux distributions is rising as Windows 10 approaches its end of life. The Finals is currently in its seventh season since its launch in 2023.

Tech Optimizer

June 28, 2025

Microsoft set to withdraw direct kernel access from security software

Microsoft is changing Windows to restrict security software from operating at the kernel level to reduce vulnerabilities. This decision follows a flawed update from CrowdStrike that crashed over 8.5 million Windows machines. Microsoft is collaborating with security firms like CrowdStrike, Bitdefender, ESET, and Trend Micro to create a new security platform, emphasizing a cooperative approach rather than dictating terms. The transition will start with a private preview for security companies, initially affecting antivirus and endpoint detection software, with plans to include other applications later. Microsoft is also introducing a Quick Machine Recovery feature to restore systems that fail to boot and replacing the "Blue Screen of Death" with a black screen as part of its updates.

Winsage

June 10, 2025

Arm says Windows game compatibility is up to developers

Arm-powered Windows devices using Qualcomm Snapdragon processors are noted for their sleek designs and long battery life. While core compatibility issues have been largely resolved, gaming remains a challenge due to anti-cheat program compatibility, which can prevent games from launching. Chris Bergey from Arm Holdings mentioned that most users spend about 90% of their time on applications with native Arm versions. Major developers like Epic Games are exploring ways to improve compatibility with Arm-based systems. Additionally, anti-cheat issues affect the Steam Deck, which operates on an AMD processor but lacks native versions of several popular anti-cheat systems. As Arm-based Windows devices gain market share, game developers are expected to prioritize support for these platforms. The integration of Windows and Steam into Arm-based handheld devices could transform the gaming landscape, especially with improved battery life and efficiency.