New ransomware program targets gamers

A new malware program attempts to extort money from gamers by encrypting game saves and other user-generated files for popular computer games.

The new threat, which claims to be a variant of the notorious CryptoLocker ransomware, targets 185 file types, over 50 of which are associated with computer games and related software.

This is the first ransomware program to specifically target games, according to researchers from security firm Bromium, which recently found it. It was distributed via a drive-by download attack from a compromised website that directed users to the Angler exploit kit.

The malicious program encrypts game saves, maps, profiles, replays, mods—in other words, custom content that users would not be able to recover by simply reinstalling the game.

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