Publisher 2K has confirmed that its customer support service has been hacked, advising users to change their passwords and install antivirus software. The hack comes as the most recent in a string of attacks that have affected major game companies like Rockstar Games and Blizzard. Rockstar Games' high-profile hacking earlier this week saw major leaks from the in-development Grand Theft Auto 6 with gameplay videos surfacing online. Now, the newest compromise from 2K could have a much more malicious effect on the online platform's users.
2K officially confirmed that its online customer support platform had been hacked on Wednesday morning, claiming an "unauthorized third party" was able to obtain credentials for its help desk. 2K advised users to not open any emails from its customer support until the issue is resolved with the emails reportedly containing links to malicious websites. Users who have already clicked links are suggested by 2K to change any passwords stored in browsers, enable multi-factor authentication with services that offer it, and install a "reputable anti-virus program."
2K's announcement regarding the hack went on to reassure fans that the publisher's support staff will not ask users for their passwords or personal information. 2K took down its online customer support shortly following the hack, confirming it would notify users when the portal is online again. The post also encouraged fans to use multi-factor authentication that relies on an authenticator app rather than text message verification. 2K Support said it would update fans later on how to protect themselves from other malicious activity related to the hack.
While 2K's recent breach was more malicious in nature, the gaming world has seen a number of high-profile hacks leaking information and videos from in-development games. Alongside the previously mentioned Grand Theft Auto 6 leak, Blizzard recently saw over 40 minutes worth of gameplay from the upcoming Diablo 4 leaked. The footage reportedly came from the game's Alpha tests and was not the first time Diablo 4 had seen major leaks in recent months.
2K's massive hack comes as the publisher has a number of high-profile games set to release throughout the coming months. 2K Sports saw the launch of NBA 2K23 in November as the newest installment in the annual basketball franchise with golf game PGA Tour 2K23 set to come next month. Gearbox's New Tales from the Borderlands is also scheduled to release in October with Firaxis' Marvel's Midnight Suns slated for December. The 2K Support breach marks the newest example in a string of high-profile security compromises that have come throughout 2022.