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
Xiaomi introduces Redmi A5: Powerful camera, performance upgrades wrapped in new design
3:34 p.m. May 23, 2025
XIAOMI Corporation, a consumer electronics and smart manufacturing company with smartphones and smart hardware connected by an Internet of Things (“IoT”) platform at its core, has unveiled Redmi A5, seamlessly blending an extensive array of generous upgrades that make advanced smartphone features accessible to a broader audience.
With a refreshed design, a significantly improved camera, and a larger display, Redmi A5 transforms the essentials into an experience that feels effortlessly refined, crafted for those who value both practicality and aesthetics in their everyday smartphone.
Design and Display
Redmi A5 introduces a sleek new design, elevating its visual appeal with a stylish flat frame and an enhanced camera deco with an all-new metallic-feel surround. This smartphone comes in sophisticated color options, each evoking a distinct sense of character. Midnight
Black and Sandy Gold feature a matte, smudge-resistant finish that offers a timeless, understated elegance. Lake Green and Ocean Blue take inspiration from nature, their veined patterns reminiscent of ripples on a tranquil body of water. With its slim 8.26mm body, Redmi A5 balances modern elegance with a comfortable grip.
Despite its slim profile, Redmi A5 expands possibilities with an up to 120Hz large 6.88-inch display, offering a truly immersive experience whether watching videos, browsing, or reading. Even when hands are damp, wet touch technology helps to maintain responsiveness, further improving usability. Meanwhile, for those longer sessions, TÜV Rheinland-certified eye protection and DC dimming help to minimize strain, making extended screen time easier on the eyes.
Camera and Performance Upgrades
Complementing the display, Redmi A5 introduces a substantial leap in camera capabilities through its powerful 32MP AI dual camera, allowing users to capture moments with remarkable clarity. With a larger sensor that takes in 18% more light4 than the previous generation, night photography stands out with improved detail, delivering brighter, clearer shots in low-light settings. The camera keeps photos crisp and vivid even when confronted with challenging backlit settings. Turning to the front, the upgraded 8MP selfie camera delivers natural-looking portraits with fresh detail. At the same time, the soft-light ring, achieved from the display’s illumination, allows users to take well-lit selfies even in dim environments. Thanks to these thoughtful innovations, Redmi A5 makes capturing and preserving memories effortless, whether a scenic view or a fleeting moment.
Building on its impressive camera upgrades, Redmi A5 has been designed to seamlessly fit into your fast-paced lifestyle, offering features for reliability and convenience at every turn. Powered by the octa-core UNISOC T7250 processor and supported by up to 8GB of RAM5 through memory extension, Redmi A5 easily handles multitasking, providing smooth app performance even during demanding tasks. Yet with its powerful performance, Redmi A5 doesn’t compromise battery life. Equipped with a 5200mAh battery, it supports over 20 hours of video playback and over hours of gaming on a single charge, keeping you going throughout the day.
For further added convenience, Redmi A5 also offers secure access through a side fingerprint sensor and face unlock. Plus, with the 3.5mm headphone jack, users can continue enjoying high-quality wired audio.
Pricing and Availability
Redmi A5 arrives in the Philippines in four colors—Midnight Black, Sandy Gold, Lake Green, and Ocean Blue—offered in two variants: one with 3GB of RAM and 64GB of storage at only P3,599, and another with 4GB of RAM and 128GB of storage at just P4,099.
It has been available online starting May 20 via Xiaomi’s official Shopee and Lazada stores, and in authorized Mi Stores nationwide beginning May 23.
TECHNOLOGY
Chevron champions program to help Filipino pros upskill in Cloud Computing
10:03 a.m. May 21, 2025
Chevron, marketer of Caltex and lubricants, has joined forces again with education technology platform Edukasyon.ph to sponsor a second batch of Amazon Web Services (AWS) re/Start scholars and help unemployed Filipinos upskill in cloud computing. Their joint efforts culminated in April 2025, when all 50 students graduated from the program with flying colors.
The AWS re/Start program is a skills development and job training program that prepares unemployed or underemployed individuals for information technology careers. In 9-12 consecutive weeks, learners gain both technical knowledge as well as behaviors, mindsets and employment essentials, preparing them for entry-level careers in the cloud.
The program also links graduates to in-demand tech jobs, allowing them to apply their new skills and provide for their families. Employers that were present at this year’s exclusive career fair include Chevron, Bayad Center, Kuehne Nagel, Stratpoint, Boss Jobs, Promotexter, Software One, ECloud Valley, Absi and Maverick.
According to Chevron Philippines Senior Corporate Advisor Raissa Bautista, Chevron values its partnership with the AWS re/Start program and Edukasyon.ph as their tie-up offers learners opportunities to continue their education and personal growth. This would also prepare graduates to enter the dynamic field of cloud computing and innovate in their respective companies.
She told the graduates, “This program has created a full circle of education and gives everybody a second chance if they had to stop for a while. I am also fascinated with the age of digitization because I think it’s really the future. I know the possibilities are limitless, so just spread your wings and good luck.”
Meanwhile, Edukasyon.ph Strategic Account Manager Joshua Toquero said that Edukasyon and Chevron renewed their partnership for AWS re/Start because they both value helping young professionals reach their dream careers.
He also hopes that AWS re/Start graduates realize they no longer have to struggle alone because multiple stakeholders are willing to help them reach their dreams. “I hope they believe that no man is an island and that you can achieve your goals if you work hand-in-hand with other people in the community.”
TECHNOLOGY
Vertiv accelerates AI Infrastructure Evolution in alignment with NVIDIA 800 VDC Power Architecture Announcement
12:11 p.m. May 20, 2025
Designed for next-generation AI factories, Vertiv’s 800 VDC solutions planned for 2026, in support of NVIDIA rack-scale compute platforms
Vertiv (NYSE: VRT), a global provider of critical digital infrastructure, today confirmed its strategic alignment with NVIDIA’s announcement of an AI roadmap to deploy 800 VDC power architectures for the next generation of AI-centric data centers. Paving the way for future-ready designs, Vertiv’s 800 VDC power portfolio is scheduled for release in the second half of 2026 — ahead of NVIDIA Kyber and NVIDIA Rubin Ultra platform rollouts.
Vertiv aligns with the NVIDIA AI roadmap to stay one GPU generation ahead, enabling customers to deploy their power and cooling infrastructure in sync with NVIDIA’s next-generation compute platforms. Vertiv provides end-to-end power, cooling, integrated infrastructure and services to support AI factories and other data center deployments.
As rack power requirements in AI environments scale beyond 300 kilowatts, 800 VDC enables more efficient, centralized power delivery by reducing copper usage, current, and thermal losses. Vertiv’s upcoming portfolio will feature centralized rectifiers, high-efficiency DC busways, rack-level DC-DC converters, and DC-compatible backup systems, expanding its broad, end-to-end power management portfolio that already includes a robust AC power train.
“As GPUs evolve to support increasingly complex AI applications at giga-watt scale, power and cooling providers need to be equally innovative to provide energy-efficient and high-density solutions for the AI factories. While the 800 VDC portfolio is new, DC power isn’t a new direction for us, it’s a continuation of what we’ve already done at scale,” said Scott Armul, executive vice president of global portfolio and business units at Vertiv. “We’ve spent decades deploying higher-voltage DC architectures across global telecom, industrial, and data center applications. We’re entering this transition from a position of strength and bringing real-world experience to meet the demands of the AI factory.”
Vertiv’s experience in DC power spans more than two decades of ±400 VDC deployments, broadened by strategic acquisitions during the early 2000’s. These solutions support critical loads in global telecom networks, integrated microgrids, and mission-critical facilities. This foundation establishes Vertiv as a trusted leader in the safe design, deployment, and operation of higher-voltage DC architectures, with proven scale, portfolio, and long-term serviceability.
Designed for homogeneous AI zones in hyperscale environments, Vertiv’s 800 VDC portfolio is a key pillar of its “unit of compute” strategy — a systems-level design engineered to enable all infrastructure components — to interoperate as one modular and scalable system, matching infrastructure demands of next-generation GPUs. Vertiv’s support for both AC and DC architectures is a strategic differentiator in the evolving AI data center landscape.
For more information about Vertiv’s DC power solutions and end-to-end power and cooling solutions, visit www.vertiv.com.
Xiaomi introduces Redmi A5: Powerful camera, performance upgrades wrapped in new design
DEFTAC celebrates 3 decades of excellence, honors global champs
Chevron champions program to help Filipino pros upskill in Cloud Computing
