TECHNOLOGY
Malware that steals credentials, credit card details abuse biggest new games
September 15, 2022 7:19 p.m.
In the first half of 2022, Kaspersky researchers detected increased activity of cybercriminals abusing gamers. The number of users attacked by malicious software, which gathers sensitive data and spreads under the guise of some of the most popular gaming titles, has increased by 13% compared to the first half of 2021.
In attempts to download new games from untrustworthy resources for free, players actually received malicious software, losing their gaming accounts and even money. These and other findings are part of the gaming-related threats report issued by Kaspersky.
To assess the current landscape in gaming risks, Kaspersky experts observed the most popular PC and mobile games-related threats. Overall, between 1 July 2021 and 30 June 2022, Kaspersky security solutions detected more than 384,000 users affected by almost 92,000 malicious or unwanted unique files that mimicked 28 games or series of games.
In addition to the large number of downloaders that are able to install other unwanted programs, and adware, Kaspersky researchers even detected Trojan-Spies – a category of spyware capable of tracking any data entered on the keyboard and taking screenshots.
The research also revealed a growth in attacks made with malicious software that steals sensitive data from infected devices. It included Trojan-PSW, which gathers victims’ credentials, Trojan-Banker, that steals payment data, and Trojan-GameThief, which collects login information for gaming accounts.
From July 1st, 2021 to June 30th, 2022 Kaspersky security solutions detected a total of 3,705 unique files distributing this malicious software under the guise of popular games or series of games. In the first half of 2022, Kaspersky researchers observed a 13 percent increase in the number of users attacked with it in comparison to the first half of 2021. The number of such unique files used to infect users also increased in the first half of 2022 by nearly a quarter, compared to the same period in 2021: 1,868 and 1,530 files, respectively.
Most often, users receive malicious files when they try to download games not from official sites, but from third-party webpages. This is especially true if a new game is quite expensive and the player wants to save money by finding a copy for free on untrustworthy sites. However, they will lose much more than if they had bought a legitimate version. For example, many malicious files steal login information for gaming accounts, banking details and even crypto wallet data by infecting devices.
Attackers purposely seek to spread threats under the guise of games that either have a huge captive audience or that have only recently been released and are constantly on gamers’ radars. Well-known games such as Roblox, FIFA or Minecraft, for example, as well as the new parts of big series of games, released during the last year – Elden Ring, Halo, and Resident Evil – were actively abused by attackers who spread RedLine malware under their guise.
RedLine is password-stealing software, which extracts sensitive data from the victim’s device such as passwords, saved bank card details, cryptocurrency wallets, and credentials for VPN services.
From July 1, 2021 to June 30, 2022 Kaspersky solutions detected 2,362 unique users attacked with RedLine, spread under the guise of popular games, which makes it the most active threat family for the period given. Redline is usually sold for a very low price on various hacker forums, therefore, it has huge popularity among cybercriminals.
In addition to spreading malicious files, attackers continue to actively create and spread new phishing pages in the gaming sphere. For the first time Kaspersky experts discovered a new scheme of phishers attacking gamers. Mimicking the whole interface of in-game stores for CS:GO, PUBG and Warface, scammers create fraudulent pages, offering potential victims a decent arsenal of various weapons and artifacts for free.
To receive the gift, players need to enter login data for their social network accounts, such as Facebook or Twitter. After taking over accounts, attackers are likely to search through personal messages for card details, or ask various friends of the victim for money, preying on their trust and carelessness.
Scammers create fake in-game store mimicking the PUBG mobile interface. The scheme encourages users to log in using their social media credentials
“During the pandemic the gaming industry was greatly boosted, increasing the number of gaming fans several times over. As we can see, cybercriminals are actively abusing this trend, creating more and more new schemes and tools to attack players and steal their credit card data and even game accounts, which can contain expensive skins that can later be sold. We expect to see new types of attacks on gamers in the next year. For example, strikes on Esports, which are now gaining huge popularity around the world. That’s why it’s so important to always be protected, so you don’t lose your money, credentials, and gaming account,” comments Anton V. Ivanov, senior security researcher at Kaspersky.
Read about other gaming-related threats in 2022 in the full report on Securelist.
To stay safe while gaming, Kaspersky recommends:
- It is safer to download your games from official stores like Steam, Apple App Store, Google Play or Amazon Appstore only. Games from these markets are not 100 % secure, but they at least are checked by store representatives and there is some kind of screening system: not every app can get into these stores.
- If you wish to buy a game that is not available through major stores, purchase them from the official website only. Double-check the URL of the website and make sure it is authentic.
- Beware of phishing campaigns and unfamiliar gamers. Do not open links received by email or in a game chat unless you trust the sender. Do not open files you get from strangers.
- Do not download pirated software or any other illegal content, even if you are redirected to it from a legitimate website.
- A strong, reliable security solution will be a great help to you, especially if it will not slow down your computer while you are playing, but at the same time, it will protect you from all possible cyberthreats. For example, Kaspersky Total Security works smoothly with Steam and other gaming services.
- Use a robust security solution to protect yourself from malicious software and its activity on mobile devices, such as Kaspersky Internet Security for Android.
TECHNOLOGY
Quick Flicks and Pro Clicks: Logitech brings fastest click technology with Latest PRO X2 SUPERSTRIKE
1:11 p.m. March 26, 2026
Logitech G raises the bar for competitive gaming performance once again with the launch of the PRO X2 SUPERSTRIKE, a next-gen wireless mouse that combines inductive analog sensing with real-time haptics.
Designed for elite precision and total control, the PRO X2 dramatically reduces click latency, enhances responsiveness, and gives players the power to personalize their click intensity like never before.
Industry-Leading Click Technology
Featuring a patent-pending SUPERSTRIKE technology, an industry-first innovation, the PRO X2 transforms how every mouse click is activated and felt. This new technology allows players to reduce the required travel distance to send the click signal. Improvements in click delay are shown to reach up to 30 milliseconds based on internal testing. This drastically transforms the way players compete and provides them the decisive edge they need to win virtual battlefields.
The PRO X2 introduces the Haptic Inductive Trigger System (HITS), which replaces traditional microswitches found in gaming mice. This system drastically improves click latency performance by sending tactile feedback to players so each click is felt the moment the signal reaches the PC.
By combining trigger response optimization with real-time click haptics, Logitech G sets a new benchmark in competitive mouse performance through the PRO X2.
Customizable Esports-Level Gaming Performance
Developed in collaboration with elite esports teams G2 Esports, NAVi, and BLG, the PRO X2 is made to meet the demands of high-level competitive play. Every element of the mouse is designed to support players in fast decision-making, precise execution, and unmatched consistency, whether competing in a professional environment or grinding ranked matches at home.
Beyond its impressive click system, the PRO X2 also introduces 10 selectable actuation steps, allowing players to fine-tune the actuation point of both main buttons. This level of control enables them to calibrate every click depth to match their preferred playstyle, role, or specific game requirements with zero hassle. These adjustments can be made seamlessly through Logitech G HUB software, giving them the flexibility to edit their settings without disrupting their momentum.
The PRO X2 also features LIGHTSPEED wireless technology that blends comfort and efficiency by delivering up to an 8 kHz report rate of untethered freedom. This end-to-end wireless solution ensures that every click and movement registers with exceptional speed and stability, earning the trust of esports professionals worldwide.
Precision Tracking Without Setbacks
Harnessing Logitech’s elite HERO 2 sensor, the PRO X2 SUPERSTRIKE enables a reliable 888 IPS tracking speed with sub-micron precision, up to 44,000 DPI mouse sensitivity, and over 88G acceleration. For players, this level of control not only supports quick wrist flicks and controlled micro-adjustments but also helps in split-second decisions that require fast reaction. Movements are assured to have zero smoothing, acceleration, or filtering, giving players the chance to showcase their raw and unfiltered skills.
Lightweight Design Built for Long Competitive Sessions
Following the award-winning design of the SUPERLIGHT 2, the PRO X2 weighs 61 grams to support fluid movements and long competitive sessions. Additionally, it comes with a long-lasting battery, reaching up
90 hours of constant use, to allow players to focus on their games without worrying about charge times.
The PRO X2 SUPERSTRIKE sets a new benchmark in player-controlled click innovation that redefines what competitive gaming hardware can deliver. Through Logitech’s advancing technologies, it brings together ultra-responsiveness and absolute control for a reliable wireless virtual performance.
Logitech G’s latest gaming mouse is priced at PHP 11,945 and is available exclusively on Shopee and Logitech Authorized Retail Partners and Gaming Specialists. To learn more about the product and upcoming product releases, follow Logitech G on Facebook. You may also visit http://www.logitechg.com for more product offerings.
TECHNOLOGY
OPPO Find X9 breaks barriers of mobile photography
9:22 a.m. March 24, 2026
Redefining what a flagship smartphone camera can achieve, the OPPO Find X9 sets a new standard for mobile imaging with its innovative capability to capture full-resolution 50MP photos by default, delivering unprecedented clarity without relying on shooting modes or manual tweaks.
This breakthrough delivers unprecedented clarity and detail, with 8K-level resolution across all three rear lenses every time you press the shutter, marking the brand’s biggest leap in camera innovation yet. It is designed specifically for creators, visual storytellers, and photography enthusiasts in mind.
Delivering Professional- Grade Quality with the LUMO Image Engine
While most smartphones downscale images to 12MP due to processing limits, the OPPO Find X9 overcomes this barrier with an industry-first imaging pipeline powered by the LUMO Image Engine. All rear cameras now capture crisp, ultra-clear 50MP photos by default, preserving deep textures, sharp edges, and rich detail even after heavy cropping or zooming. To fully appreciate its exceptional quality, users can tap the 8K icon that appears when viewing their photos in the default Photos app for a level of clarity and resolution previously only associated with professional cameras.
Meanwhile, LUMO’s real-time parallel processing enables the CPU, GPU, ISP, and NPU to work simultaneously, enhancing clarity while cutting power consumption by up to 50 percent. This results in balanced highlights, clean shadows, and impressive detail retention even in complex lighting conditions.
Refining Creative Expression Through the Hasselblad Master Camera System
At the core of the OPPO Find X9’s imaging capabilities is the Hasselblad Master Camera System, which brings professional-grade engineering to smartphone photography. The system includes:
- 50MP Main Camera with an ultra-large sensor for enhanced light intake
- 50MP Ultra-Wide Camera capable of capturing sweeping landscapes with zero distortion
- 50MP Periscope Telephoto Camera featuring OPPO’s Triple Prism Lens and 120x Super Zoom for astounding long-range shot results
The collaboration with Hasselblad ensures natural color calibration, beautifully rendered portraits, and deeper tones that reflect the iconic look of Hasselblad cameras. Features like Hasselblad XPAN Mode, Master Mode, and enhanced bokeh simulation provide depth and artistic control for creators.
Revealing True-to-Life Color Through Advanced Spectral Sensing
OPPO Find X9’s True Color Camera supports the 50MP default mode. It is an innovative sensor equipped with two million spectral pixels that analyze color temperature across a refined grid. This ensures that skin tones, neon signs, sunsets, and indoor lighting appear as close as possible to how the eye sees them, providing accuracy that is difficult to achieve on typical mobile cameras.
Colors are rendered naturally, without overly saturated processing, creating images that stand out in their authenticity and tonal balance.
Empowering New Perspectives With 120x Super Zoom
The OPPO Find X9 delivers dependable detail even at extreme distances through its 120x Super Zoom. Using a combination of optical zoom, sensor-level processing, and OPPO’s Super Resolution algorithm, the phone allows users to capture subjects far across the city skyline or fine details across a concert venue. Images remain clear and stable, unlocking creative perspectives normally accessible only with professional telephoto lenses.
A Fusion of Artistry and Engineering
The OPPO Find X9 embodies a design philosophy that brings together art, precision, and intelligent engineering. Its camera innovations are paired with a powerful performance core, ideal for Filipinos who rely on their smartphones to capture their stories.
The OPPO Find X9 (16GB + 512GB) is available nationwide through OPPO’s physical stores, e-commerce platforms on Shopee, Lazada, TikTok, and the official OPPO online store.
TECHNOLOGY
Designed for style: HONOR X8d arrives in PH for only P15,999
3:00 p.m. March 22, 2026
LEADING global AI smart devices provider HONOR Philippines today lifted the curtain on the new HONOR X8d, the latest addition to its acclaimed X Series line-up. Crafted to deliver an optimal experience to users, the HONOR X8d is priced at P15,999.
The new stylish smartphone integrates ultra-slim design, a robust 7000mAh battery, and stunning AI experience, representing HONOR’s dedication to provide well-rounded smartphones cater to the needs of consumers who desire a sleek, intelligent, and durable mobile device.
“The HONOR X8d is designed for today’s generation—where style is a statement and value matters. We’re proud to offer a smartphone that delivers both, making premium aesthetics and reliable performance more accessible than ever,” said HONOR Philippines Vice President Stephen Cheng.
Ultra-Slim Design with Class-Leading Battery Life
Introducing a 7.5mm ultra-thin and lightweight design, the HONOR X8d strikes a perfect balance between a smooth feel and elegant appearance. With advanced excimer technology and micro-nano textures, the body is extremely glossy and eye-catching, while the exquisite metal barrel adds extra embellishment to the back cover.
Powered by a large 7000mAh battery, the HONOR X8d provides price-level biggest 52 hours battery life verified by TÜV Rheinland and 6 years of endurance. The test data shows that the device can stand up to 31 hours of video playback on a single charge. With multi-point temperature monitoring, the battery shows great performance in temperatures from -20°C to 45°C, which allows it to work perfectly in various harsh condition. Additionally, the 45W wired HONOR SuperCharge can rapidly revive the battery for extended usage.
Fabulous AI Button for Brand-New AI Experience
Featuring a brilliant Instant AI Button, the HONOR X8d offers brand-new AI interaction through this subtle design. This physical side button enables users to quickly launch clean up and speed up commands and frequently used apps with a single press, providing much convenience in daily lives. Meanwhile, with a long press, users can activate more AI features such as Circle-to-Search, AI Subtitles, AI Writing, and Blur Private Info, delivering personalized and seamless user experience. Powered by the latest MagicOS 10 based on Android 16, the HONOR X8d carries various other intelligence features including Magic Capsule, Magic Portal, AI Memories, AI Settings Agent, and Google Gemini Assistant, making it the best partner for both work and life.
Exceptional Durability with Comprehensive Protection
Despite its extremely slim and lightweight body design, the HONOR X8d still showcases all-around drop resistance with SGS Premium Performance Certification of Drop & Crush Resistance, which ensures it can withstand drops from heights of up to 2 meters. Boasted with IP65 Water Resistance, the HONOR X8d can easily handle complex water environments including rinsing, splashing, and even high-pressure water guns. This device has been tested to function after being submerged in water for up to 1 minute at a depth of 0.5 meters, making it a dependable companion in various settings and situations. Additionally, with Wet-Hand Touch Enhancement, users can still have smooth experience even with wet or greasy fingers.
AI-Powered Smartphone Photography Experience
Packed with a stunning 108MP Ultra-Clear AI Camera, the HONOR X8d captures images with exceptional details and enhanced brightness, offering users both daylight precision and nocturnal refinement. With 3x Lossless Zoom, users can create stunning shots with diverse focal lengths, effortlessly creating different street vibes. With HONOR Connection, the HONOR X8d breaks the long-standing “drop-barrier” between different systems, enabling the device to share moving photo to iOS seamlessly. Additionally, the HONOR X8d integrates AI photography features like AI Eraser, AI Upscale, AI Cutout and AI Outpainting, which enable users to freely customize their image, streamlining photo editing on smartphones.
Enhanced Hardware for Superior Experience
The HONOR X8d features a 6.77-inch OLED Display, which supports 1.07 billion colors, a high refresh rate of 120Hz, and peak HDR brightness of 3000nits, delivering vibrant hues and incredibly fluid interface with exceptionally sharp and clear viewing experience. The device also boasts 6 eye-care technologies, including 3840Hz PWM Risk-free Dimming, Circadian Night Display, Dynamic Dimming, Comfortable Dim-light Adjustment, Low Blue Light and E-Book Mode.
Powered by the Snapdragon 6s 4G Gen 2, the HONOR X8d offers users a new level of system smoothness and higher graphical performance. This power efficiency is complemented by HONOR’s innovative RAM Turbo Technology, which effectively provides a 16GB RAM equivalent experience (8GB physical + 8GB virtual). It ensures smooth performance even after extended use, allowing users to multitask and switch between apps effortlessly. Additionally, the HONOR X8d comes equipped with 512GB large internal storage at most, providing ample space for years of precious memories.
Pricing and Availability
Catering to users’ diverse style preferences, the HONOR X8d is available in 3 captivating colorways: Light Blue, Velvet Black, Velvet Grey. Starting March 19 to 27, 2026, the HONOR X8d will be available for pre-order for only P15,999 with FREE HONOR Camping Light Speakers when you get from any HONOR Experience and Partner Stores. HONOR X8d is also available online via Shopee (https://bit.ly/Shop_X8d_PR), Lazada (https://bit.ly/Laz_X8d_PR), and TikTok Shop (https://bit.ly/TikTok_X8d_PR) with FREE HONOR Earbuds II.
Check out full specs of HONOR X8d here (https://bit.ly/Web_X8d_PR). In the meantime, for more exciting announcements, visit HONOR’s website www.hihonor.com, and follow HONOR Philippines on Facebook (Facebook.com/HonorPhilippines), Instagram (Instagram.com/honorph/) and TikTok: (Tiktok.com/@honorphilippines) for exclusive teasers, launch updates, and big reveal.
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