A free game called PirateFi, available on Steam, was found distributing the Vidar info-stealing malware to unsuspecting users. The game remained on Steam for nearly a week, from February 6 to February 12, 2025, and was downloaded by up to 1,500 users. Steam has since removed the game and is notifying potentially affected users, advising them to reinstall Windows as a precaution.
Expert Analysis:
This incident is a stark reminder that malware distribution is no longer confined to shady torrents or underground forums—it has infiltrated mainstream digital marketplaces. Users often assume that major platforms provide a safe environment, but as this case demonstrates, even reputable storefronts are not immune to abuse. The ability of threat actors to bypass Steam’s security checks suggests either a failure in automated detection systems or a lack of rigorous manual review. If a malicious game can remain undetected for nearly a week, what else is slipping through the cracks?
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