Security News > 2020 > September > Gamer Credentials Now a Booming, Juicy Target for Hackers

Credential theft targeting hardcore gamers has hit an all-time high as scams, illicit markets and account takeovers have become a booming business.

More common, Akamai said, is attackers using stolen credentials to log in to a game account and simply steal a user's profile information, financial data and whatever valuable virtual merchandise and currency they can find.

"Gamers are highly targeted, because they have several qualities that criminals look for. They're engaged and active in social communities. For the most part, they have disposable income, and they tend to spend it on their gaming accounts and gaming experiences. When these factors are combined, criminals see the gaming industry as a target-rich environment," wrote Ragan.

Phishing attacks are the preferred way that criminals target gamers directly.

"Some victims were targeted long before their gaming profiles were compromised. Criminals will target everything, including email and social media, and use those trusted networks and expected safe spaces as a launching pad toward other targets and new attacks," he said.

News URL

https://threatpost.com/gamer-juicy-target-for-hackers/159507/