Vietnam Cybersecurity Department warns of risks from pirated games

The Cybersecurity and High-Tech Crime Prevention Department (A05) under the Ministry of Public Security has issued a warning regarding the risks associated with using pirated games. Monitoring of various Facebook groups has revealed thousands of members participating in communities that share unauthorized game modifications, free versions, or unofficial servers.

Downloading files such as APK or EXE from unverified sources poses significant security threats, including the installation of malware designed to steal passwords, personal data, social media accounts, and financial information. Some applications may request excessive permissions, such as access to contacts, notifications, or files, to facilitate data collection and monitoring.

Beyond cybersecurity threats, users face financial risks. Unofficial servers may lack transparency, leading to sudden service shutdowns, character deletions, or the inability to claim refunds. Malicious actors often exploit the desire for free items or rapid leveling to lure users into visiting suspicious websites or disabling security warnings.