Leaked CSGO source code could lead to more hacks and cheats

The source code of CSGO and Team Fortress has been shared on 4chan. This leads many to recommend gamers not to play the game because it can put you at ‘at risk’.

Because the source code files are already there, many hackers are likely to mess with the online server, potentially affecting millions of players participating in the game’s online mode.

Source code for both CS:GO and TF2 dated 2017/2018 that was made available to Source engine licenses was leaked to the public today. pic.twitter.com/qWEQGbq9Y6

— Steam Database (@SteamDB) April 22, 2020

This source code belongs to the period 2017-2018, for those who own the copyright of the Source engine. Although it is an old version, these files can be exploited to develop hack and cheat software for the two games mentioned above.

Valve has yet to comment, but several Team Fortress 2 community servers such as Creators.TF and Red Sun have announced they will be shutting down operations until the potential for exploitation is addressed. Reddit admins on r/tf2 and r/counterstrike also recommend that players avoid playing these two games, at least when Valve decides to respond.

Due to the recent source code leak we will be closing our servers for the forseeable future. This is because of the uncertainty surrounding security of our infrastructure, as well as a potential for damage to be caused to your computer.https://t.co/gWcIKRMPdj

— Creators.TF (@CreatorsTF) April 22, 2020

These are solutions to prevent players from getting Remote Code Execute (RCE), which has been used in the past to transmit viruses, enable aimbots for any player, or clear inventory via the server.

“Basically, you are vulnerable in multiplayer matches,” said one r/tf2 admin. “It is possible for someone to install a virus on your computer just by being on the same server. Your item and Steam profile may be targeted. For your own safety, we advise you not to play until the issue is resolved. I don’t know how long it will last but we will let everyone know.”

Update April 23: Valve has feedback on CSGO twitter account about the source code leak, said they found “no reason for players to be wary or avoid playing the current version”.

We have reviewed the leaked code and believe it to be a reposting of a limited CS:GO engine code depot released to partners in late 2017, and originally leaked in 2018. From this review, we have not found any reason for players to be alarmed or avoid the current builds.

— CS:GO (@CSGO) April 22, 2020

“We have looked through the leaked file code and believe that this is a limited CSGO engine code that was given to partners at the end of 2017, and has been exposed since 2018. As always, play on the server. official to ensure the best security. We will continue to investigate the situation and update players if we discover anything. In the meantime, if anyone has information about the leak, it is better to report the information to Valve’s security page.”

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