DOTA 2 Mods: Beware as It May Install Malware and Access Files on Your Computer

Isaiah Richard, Tech Times 10 February 2023, 12:02 am

Installing mods on your computer for different games may elevate your experience and bring life to an old favorite game, but it may also be your downfall, especially in the hit online MOBA, "DOTA 2." The famous game from Valve has recently discovered that there is malware that installs itself and aims to exploit one's PC upon installation.

Of course, it is hard to keep track of all the mods that have malware with them, as they could hide effectively, and only appear after installation.

DOTA 2 Mods Contain Malware, Security Researcher Warns

(Photo : Valve Corporation)

Malware is a big curse to the PC gaming world, as some developers intentionally include these malicious files to access data, and there is a chance that one's download may contain dishonest files. In a recent report by Avast Threat Labs, the famed "DOTA 2" MOBA from Valve is a massive breeding ground for malware embedded within mods.

According to its research, the game's V8 bug is now the center of exploits and entry paths for malware to infect PCs, particularly as it is already outdated. It is also notorious for being an open-source JavaScript engine.

Additionally, V8s are famous for being a browser's zero-day exploit chain which could also be applied to games, particularly with downloaded mods for "DOTA 2." Specifically, the vulnerabilities lie with CVE-2021-38003, with four custom game modes now infected.

What DOTA 2 Mods Contain Malware?

TechRadar reported that Valve already addressed these issues in the January 12 patch, after Avast forwarded this report to them.

The mods infected with the bug and exploits include "test addon plz ignore," "Overdog no annoying heroes," "Custom Hero Brawl," and "Overthrow RTZ Edition X10 XP."

Additionally, there is a fifth mod found by the same author called "Brawl in Petah Tiqwa," but does not contain any malware.

'DOTA 2' from Valve

The famed "Defense of the Ancients" game became famous after Valve created the fan-made online multiplayer battle arena mod from the iconic "Warcraft III: Reign of Chaos" and its Frozen Throne expansion.

Since then, it has been a staple for online MOBA games which helped give birth to countless adaptations or copycats in the world, as well as the 2013-released "DOTA 2," considered one of the best free games of its era.

Valve brought different expansions to "DOTA 2," and provided multiple updates to the MOBA since its release until the present, remaining one of the most famous eSports events in the world. The company also brought an online card game based on it.

"DOTA's" franchise is a success, and "DOTA 2" is undeniably one of the best free MOBA games in the world for gamers to enjoy on their computers, looking for multiple experiences online. With mods elevating gameplay and experiences in the world, people should be wary of the many offers available online, as not all are honest, and may result in corrupting one's PC in the long run.