Valve Removes Malware-Infested Game from Steam

Valve recently pulled a game from its Steam platform after discovering it contained malware, according to reports from PCMag and The Gamer. The game, called PirateFi, was marketed as “a thrilling survival game set in a vibrant, low-poly world” with solo and multiplayer modes. Unfortunately, it turned out to be more of a cybersecurity nightmare than an exciting adventure.

Valve has advised anyone who downloaded the game to take immediate action. In a message to affected users, the company recommended running a trusted antivirus scan and inspecting for any unusual or newly installed software. For those who want to be extra cautious, Valve suggested “fully reformatting your operating system” to eliminate any lingering malicious software.

While it’s unclear how many people downloaded PirateFi, it had earned a 9/10 rating from 51 reviews on its now-removed Steam page, as seen in an archived version of the listing. Valve removed the game earlier this week, and messages about the removal were shared on platforms like Reddit.

In its notification to users, Valve confirmed that the affected game builds had been removed from Steam. The company emphasized the importance of taking immediate precautions to ensure systems are secure. However, Valve did not disclose details about the specific type of malware embedded in the game. A request for comment from Valve’s spokesperson went unanswered.

The incident highlights the growing risks gamers face from malware. Because gaming platforms like Steam and video games often have deep access to a user’s device, they’ve become a lucrative target for hackers. Last year, TechCrunch reported on a campaign involving infostealer malware targeting gamers, which Activision investigated. In another case, hackers infected players of an old Call of Duty game with self-propagating malware. And in one of the boldest gaming hacks of recent times, a hacker disrupted an Apex Legends esports tournament by hijacking players’ computers mid-match, forcing Electronic Arts to delay the competition.

If you have more information about this malware incident, you can contact Lorenzo Franceschi-Bicchierai securely on Signal at +1 917 257 1382, or via Telegram and Keybase @lorenzofb.