Kaspersky Uncovers Torrent Scheme Targeting Gamers

A recent investigation by Kaspersky's Global Research & Analysis Team (GReAT) has unveiled a sophisticated cybercrime scheme whereby malefactors are distributing malware through torrent trackers. The malicious software, ingeniously disguised as free-to-download games, has been actively circulating since December 31, 2024, extending its reach through January 2025.

The primary tool employed in this scheme is a modified version of the cryptominer XMRig, which is embedded within seemingly harmless gaming files. This particular variant of malware exploits unsuspecting users' systems to facilitate невидимый майнинг—a process where cryptomining occurs without the user’s knowledge. This clandestine activity resulted in significant performance issues for affected systems, including overheating and increased electricity consumption.

Impact on Gamers

The scheme primarily targeted versions of the popular game BeamNG.drive, with over 70% of affected users downloading compromised versions of this game. The hidden mining operation leveraged the processing power of users' PCs, leading to noticeable declines in performance—particularly when running resource-intensive applications.

Deceptive Tactics

Cybercriminals have long employed tactics of deception, but this scheme underlines a worrying trend of targeting hobbyist communities, such as gaming, where torrents are commonly used. The alteration of XMRig to perform невидимый майнинг indicates not only technical skill but an understanding of exploiting niche interests to maximize infection rates.

Expert Warnings

In the wake of these attacks, Kaspersky experts have issued strong warnings to users who frequently download content from unverified sources. The risks associated with such downloads include not only performance degradation but also potential data breaches and unauthorized use of personal compute power, drawing attention from cybercrime watchdogs worldwide.

Prevention and Protection

Users are advised to exercise caution and ensure their security measures are up-to-date. Regular system checks with reputable antimalware programs can help identify and remove threats. As Kaspersky highlights, vigilance is crucial in protecting personal computing resources against unwarranted and potentially harmful exploitations. In the ever-evolving landscape of cybersecurity, proactive defense remains the central pillar of personal and collective digital safety.