When it comes to PC gaming, there is a wide assortment of digital marketplaces where you can obtain the latest title releases. However, easily the biggest out of the bunch is Steam. So, that’s an easy target for hackers who are seeking files to compromise. A new report has revealed that Steam was recently compromised, and developer accounts were the targets. These attacks were used to insert malware into game update files to infect countless players when the targeted game finished updating. Fortunately, the attack was stopped rather quickly, and fewer than a hundred Steam users were compromised.
Thanks to PC Gamer, we’re finding out about this attack and the new security measures Valve will be requiring all developers. The new method to ensure games are free from malware attacks and false updates will be based on two-factor authentication. This is a rather common security protocol for a wide assortment of online services. Chances are you have this attached to your own personal online accounts, but if not, you want to set this up soon. Essentially, with two-factor authentication, a user must have a registered phone that can receive text messages.
How it works is that once a user attempts to log into their account, a code is automatically sent to their phone. Once you input the unique code sent to your phone, you can log back into your account. This way, it’s a means to prevent a hacker from getting into your account without having your phone. Valve is rolling out this new security requirement for developer accounts on October 24, 2023. That means any developer wishing to update their game must undergo the two-factor authentication process.
It might not be a perfect solution for everyone, but this is a means to keep Steam users safe from harmful downloads. As mentioned, this two-factor authentication is set up across a wide range of services. If you haven’t set your accounts up to require two-factor authentication, it’s best to set aside the time to go through the various prompts and ensure your accounts are safe along with being far more secure. Likewise, this will hopefully ease any worries for Steam users with games that automatically download the latest updates. Now, here is hoping that developers can get through this new transition smoothly without any setbacks or issues with their phones receiving the required SMS text messages.
