Hackers are duping gamers by stealing their cryptocurrencies via video games. By using Crackonosh malware to infect Windows devices via cracked and illegal copies of software and video games, hackers are mining cryptocurrency without gamers’ knowledge.
Games including versions of Grand Theft Auto V, NBA 2K19, and Pro Evolution Soccer 2018 are being given away without any cost in forums. With the scam, criminals have made more than $2m.
According to researchers from cybersecurity firm Avast, the malware has been found in over a dozen countries, including the Philippines, India, Brazil, United States, United Kingdom, and Poland. Once Crackonosh is installed, it disables the Windows updates and uninstalls all security software.
Without any intimation to the owner, it runs a cryptocurrency mining programme that slows the computer down, increases the victim’s electricity bill, and wears out the components via overuse.
“Crackonosh shows that trying to get games for free can get you something you didn’t expect – malware” said Christopher Budd from Avast. “And we can see that this is highly profitable for the malware authors.”
According to Budd, the malware’s creator is likely to be Czech as ‘Crackonosh’ translates to “mountain spirit” in Czech folklore.
As gaming has gained a lot of traction in the past year, many gaming accounts are being stolen for their high-value in-game items to be later sold on hacking forums. In addition, as gamers spend massive amounts on their hobby, they’re increasingly being targeted by hackers.
