Key Takeaways
- A Florida man was arrested for using fake video games to steal cryptocurrency.
- The malware-infected games were published on Steam and marketed on social media.
- Authorities estimate the theft amounted to at least $220,000.
- The FBI is investigating additional co-conspirators involved in the scheme.
Arrest of Zyaire Wilkins
The FBI has arrested 21-year-old Zyaire Wilkins from Florida, who is accused of uploading fake video games to Steam that contained malware. This malware was designed to infect victims’ computers, steal their passwords, and drain their cryptocurrency wallets, according to a criminal complaint filed by U.S. prosecutors.
Details of the Scheme
Wilkins, along with unnamed co-conspirators, allegedly published several malware-laden games on the popular gaming platform. Titles included BlockBlasters, Dashverse, Lampy, Lunara, and PirateFi. The FBI claims that around 8,000 victims were infected, leading to the theft of approximately $220,000 from around 80 cryptocurrency wallets.
Marketing Tactics
The group marketed their malicious games on platforms like Discord, LinkedIn, and Telegram. In March, the FBI had already begun investigating a hacker suspected of using similar tactics to exploit victims through malware-embedded games on Steam.
Investigation and Evidence
Following the identification of another individual involved in the scheme, federal agents conducted interviews. This person revealed that they collaborated with others to fund and promote the malicious games in exchange for a share of the stolen cryptocurrency. The FBI traced specific cryptocurrency transactions to gift card purchases, which were linked to Wilkins.
Search Warrant and Seizure
After gathering sufficient evidence, the FBI executed a search warrant at Wilkins’ residence. They seized his MacBook, cell phones, and other devices. During the investigation, Wilkins reportedly declined to answer any questions posed by the authorities.