pirated games Archives

TrendTechie

February 12, 2026

Хакеры начали активно распространять стилеры на торрентах через популярные игры

Cybersecurity specialists have identified a long-running malware campaign that disguises itself as installers for pirated games, utilizing a malicious component called the RenEngine Loader. This loader operates stealthily, embedding itself within the system while allowing the game to run without disruption, thus evading detection. The campaign has been active since at least April 2025 and primarily targets popular titles from Electronic Arts and Ubisoft, such as Far Cry, FIFA, Need for Speed, and Assassin’s Creed. The malicious code appears as a harmless launcher based on Ren’Py, leading users to believe the installation is normal. Once installed, the loader can facilitate further exploits without immediate data exfiltration. Telemetry has recorded over 400,000 inquiries related to this distribution chain, with an average detection rate of around 5,000 incidents per day, and Russia ranks fourth in these observations.

TrendTechie

October 18, 2025

Ради игр с торрентов геймеры сверлили Xbox и вставляли пинцет в Nintendo Wii. Самые необычные способы пиратства на консолях

Many methods of console piracy have emerged over time, often exploiting unintentional vulnerabilities in licensed games. For example, the PSP was easily hacked due to flaws in games like Grand Theft Auto: Liberty City Stories and Medal of Honor: Heroes, which allowed users to manipulate save files to gain access to the system. A debug code in Alien: Resurrection for the PS1 enabled users to swap discs without turning off the console. Various makeshift tools have been used for hacking, such as a paperclip to exploit the Nintendo Switch and tweezers to access dormant memory sections in the Wii. The Nintendo 3DS was hacked using a magnet to trick the lid sensor, allowing access to developer mode. The Xbox 360 faced significant modding due to its firmware modification capabilities. A notable method involved drilling into the drive to bypass rewrite protection, known as the "Kamikaze Hack." While piracy methods have evolved, modern consoles have become increasingly secure, with fewer successful hacks reported in recent years. The appeal of piracy has diminished as subscription services and sales provide easier access to games.

Winsage

August 19, 2025

Microsoft Windows Warning—Stop Playing These Free PC Games

Windows users are at risk when downloading large files, particularly free games from sites like Dodi Repacks, which have been linked to malware distribution. An investigation revealed that downloading these games involves multiple redirects leading to a ZIP file containing a malicious .dll file. This file triggers the installation of HijackLoader malware, designed to bypass antivirus protections and install additional malicious software. HijackLoader employs advanced techniques to evade detection, including checks for virtual machines and monitoring system resources. It manipulates environment variables and executes payloads to maintain persistence on infected PCs. The malware has been associated with various families, including Danabot and RedLine Stealer, and is capable of delivering secondary payloads, with LummaC2 being a recent example. Users are advised to exercise caution when engaging with pirated downloads.

BetaBeacon

July 17, 2025

Is it safe to buy retro gaming handhelds with pre-loaded games? Here’s my expert advice

Downloading or sharing pirated games, even if they are old or out of print, is illegal according to copyright law. Handhelds that come with pre-loaded ROMs are also legally questionable. Cheap microSD cards that come with these devices have high fail rates and may not last long. Companies that use pirated ROMs as a selling point may not offer good customer support. It is recommended to buy from companies that do not ship their devices with games for a more legitimate and sustainable future for emulation handhelds.

AppWizard

July 15, 2025

Nintendo banned a Switch 2 user for playing second-hand games and only reinstated after providing proof of purchase

A Switch 2 owner, known as dmanthey on Reddit, was banned by Nintendo after attempting to play second-hand Switch 1 games purchased from Facebook Marketplace. This incident highlights Nintendo's strict enforcement of its intellectual property rights and digital rights management (DRM) policies. The company recently updated its online user agreement, allowing it to permanently disable services for users who violate terms, which can include actions like modding hardware or using pirated games. The specifics of what triggers a ban are unclear, raising concerns for new Switch 2 owners about inadvertently violating these policies. The situation underscores issues of ownership in the digital age, particularly for consumers who have invested in Nintendo's latest console.

Tech Optimizer

February 19, 2025

Trojanized game PirateFi discovered on Steam

Free downloads from torrent trackers pose significant risks of malware, prompting security solutions to quarantine suspicious files. A recent incident involved the game PirateFi, which was removed from Steam after being flagged for harboring malware that stole browser cookies and compromised online accounts. The game attracted minimal attention, with around 1,500 downloads and reports of unauthorized transactions among players. Valve advised users to run security scans and suggested reformatting their operating systems, which confused many. The developers, Seaworth Interactive, raised suspicions due to their promotional tactics. Malware incidents on Steam are not new, with past cases like Dynostopia affecting players. Gamers are advised to avoid cheats, choose well-reviewed games, and install dedicated gaming antimalware for protection. Kaspersky Premium offers a gaming mode that minimizes interruptions during gameplay.

Winsage

September 23, 2024

Hackers are leveraging pirated games to spread malware

Pirated or cracked versions of video games are increasingly being used by cybercriminals to distribute malware, with CAPTCHA challenges being employed to mislead users into believing that malicious websites or downloads are legitimate. A report from McAfee Labs indicates that this tactic is particularly common among individuals searching for cracked games, where dubious websites use CAPTCHAs to create an illusion of credibility. The malware, known as Lumma Stealer, targets sensitive data such as login credentials and cryptocurrency wallet information. It spreads through phishing campaigns, malicious downloads, and compromised websites, often hidden within pirated software. The use of CAPTCHA allows these malicious sites to evade automated security scanners, as users are tricked into thinking they are engaging with secure content. To mitigate risks, it is recommended to avoid pirated content and use legitimate platforms for downloading software.