Steam Removes Malware-Containing Game 'BlockBlasters' After Cryptocurrency Wallet Drain

Steam has taken down a game titled BlockBlasters after revelations that it contained malware designed to drain players' cryptocurrency wallets, affecting hundreds of users. Reported earlier by Bleeping Computer, the free-to-play 2D platformer secretly included a cryptodrainer, which successfully stole over $150,000 from victims—including a streamer raising funds for cancer treatment who lost $32,000.

Cryptodrainer malware disguised within a game

According to malware tracker vx-underground, malicious actors targeted certain streamers with a spearphishing campaign, enticing them to promote the game for compensation. The organization described BlockBlasters as “a cryptodrainer masquerading as a legitimate video game,” highlighting its deceptive nature.

The game debuted on Steam on July 30th and was published by Genesis Interactive. It quickly earned over 200 'very positive' reviews. However, the malicious components were added quietly on August 30th, raising suspicions after Latvians streamer Raivo Plavnieks (Rastaland.TV), who is battling stage 4 cancer, reported losing $32,000 after downloading the game over the weekend.

Steam listing of BlockBlasters with positive reviews

Following these incidents, Steam has removed multiple malicious titles, including PirateFi, Sniper: Phantom’s Resolution, and Chemia, to protect users. BlockBlasters was officially removed from the platform on September 21st.

The Verge reached out to Valve for comment but had not received a response at the time of publication. This incident underscores ongoing concerns about malware infiltrating gaming platforms and targeting unsuspecting players through seemingly legitimate games.

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