Recent research sheds light on a concerning trend that threatens the safety of young gamers. Threat actors are preying on unsuspecting children who enjoy popular online games like Fortnite and Roblox. These malicious actors employ various tactics to deceive kids into making unauthorized purchases and divulging sensitive information.
These scams’ alarming scale and audacity have caught the public’s and cybersecurity experts’ attention.
How scammers are tricking kids in Fortnite and Roblox
A new study conducted by security researcher Zach Edwards reveals a disturbing pattern: threat actors specifically target young kids engrossed in the virtual worlds of Fortnite and Roblox. These scammers employ elaborate schemes to convince children to buy in-game currencies from unofficial sources. Edwards’ research, spanning over three years, highlights the severity of the issue.
Surprisingly, the roots of these scams can be traced back to affiliates associated with CPABuild, an advertising company based in the United States. This company’s platform offers web traffic services for internet advertising, but it appears to have become a breeding ground for fraudulent activities. Edwards has identified compromised .gov and .org domains linked to the scammers, raising concerns about the scope of their operations.
The threat actors behind these scams have gained notoriety for their ability to infiltrate large-scale web infrastructure. This infrastructure is then utilized to host an array of fraudulent and exploitative activities.
The brazenness of their attacks and the sheer size of their operations have caught the attention of cybersecurity experts and the general public alike.
Enticing kids with free in-game currency
One disturbing aspect of this scam is the deceptive tactics employed by the threat actors. They create fraudulent websites and YouTube tutorials that promise free in-game currency or content for popular games like Fortnite and Roblox.
By capitalizing on kids’ desires, scammers lure them into downloading potentially harmful apps, disclosing personal information, or engaging in other risky behaviors.
Protecting kids from online threats
As the gaming industry continues to thrive, it’s imperative for parents to educate their children about online safety. Both Epic Games, the creator of Fortnite, and Roblox emphasize that in-game currencies cannot be acquired through unauthorized means. Young gamers must be cautious when encountering offers for free currency or content, as these are likely scams.
The battle against online scammers targeting kids is ongoing, requiring a collective effort from parents, gaming companies, and cybersecurity experts. By raising awareness about these deceptive practices and providing children with the knowledge to identify and avoid scams, we can create a safer and more enjoyable gaming experience for everyone. As the gaming world evolves, let’s ensure that our children can explore virtual realms without falling victim to real-world threats.
Featured image credit: Fortnite
