Report: Gamers suffered 11.7m malware attacks in 2013

A new report from Russian internet security company Kaspersky Lab claims that gamers faced 11.7m malware attacks worldwide in 2013.

As of the publication of the report, the firm had identified 4.6m pieces of gaming focused malware.”

"We’ve just seen two of the biggest console launches ever, with the PlayStation 4 and the Xbox One," Kaspersky senior security researcher David Emm said.

"That means there will be more gamers for criminals to target, especially as the Sony and Microsoft machines increasingly use the Internet for a fuller gaming experience.

And don’t forget the PC, still the most popular gaming platform and cyber crooks’ favorite target."

Minecraft and Grand Theft Auto V were among some of the popular titles hit with attacks in the past year. The malware afflicting Minecraft claimed to offer powers, but instead stole usernames and passwords, while GTA V’s community had to fend off websites offering fake free downloads of the game packed with malware.

The company recommends several precautions, such as installing antivirus software, using strong and varied passwords, avoiding offers that look too good to be true, being careful who you befriend online, and downloading strictly from legitimate distributors.