Cheats used in games can cause serious harm not only to in-game bans but also to computer security and your personal data. Learn how cheats can harm your system and why you should stay away from them.
Using cheats in the gaming world is a method resorted to by some players to win quickly. However, such software not only affects the gaming experience but also seriously threatens the security of your computer. Victories obtained through cheats can result in viruses infecting your system, stolen accounts, and permanent bans, imposing a heavy price. In this content, we explain in detail why in-game cheats are a major threat both ethically and technically.
WHAT IS A GAME CHEAT?
An in-game cheat is third-party software or codes that provide unfair advantages to players in games. They are generally classified as follows:
- AimBot: Automatic targeting
- WallHack: Seeing through walls
- ESP: Displaying enemy information on the screen
- SpeedHack: Moving faster than normal
- Other variants like TriggerBot / RadarHack / RecoilControl
These software are often presented on the internet with attractive titles like “free” or “premium“, but they harbor many dangers in the background.
5 MAJOR HARMS CAUSED BY CHEATS TO THE COMPUTER
1. VIRUS AND TROJAN ENCOUNTER
Cheat software is often distributed with .exe files containing viruses and malicious software:
- Keylogger: Tracks keyboard movements, steals your passwords.
- Trojan: Provides remote access to your computer.
- Ransomware: Encrypts your files and demands ransom.
- Spyware: Monitors your browser history, microphone/camera access.
2. DECREASE IN HARDWARE PERFORMANCE
Cheat programs consume system resources as they run in the background:
- There may be a decrease in FPS
- Freezes and lags occur during gameplay
- The processor and RAM work unnecessarily, shortening the system’s lifespan
3. PERMANENT BANS ON GAME ACCOUNTS
Anti-cheat systems work with highly advanced algorithms:
- VAC (Steam), Vanguard (Riot), Easy Anti-Cheat (Epic) systems are very successful in detection.
- When you get banned, your access to the game can be permanently closed.
- Hardware bans can also be applied; even if you create a new account, your device can be blocked.
4. THEFT OF CREDIT CARD AND PERSONAL INFORMATION
Especially websites offering paid cheats:
- Can capture your credit card information with fake payment pages
- Your email, social media, game accounts can be compromised
- Information of other users logging in on the same computer is also at risk
5. COMPROMISING INTERNET SECURITY
Cheat software opens a backdoor to your computer:
- Your IP address can be tracked
- Your system can be included in a botnet network and used in cyber attacks
- Your personal data can be shared without your knowledge
WARNING TO THOSE WHO SAY “I PLAY OFFLINE, IT’S NOT A PROBLEM”
Many players think that cheats will not cause harm if used only offline or on private servers. However;
- Once cheat software infects your system, it continues to run in the background
- These software can be detected when clients like Steam, Riot, Epic are open
- Historical log records remain on the system, and you can still get banned in subsequent sessions
THE BENEFITS OF STAYING AWAY FROM CHEATS
- You use a safer system
- Your accounts have a long lifespan, your gaming history remains intact
- Your online reputation is preserved, especially important if you are a streamer or content creator
- You can participate in tournaments and ranked matches
- The joy and pride of rising with real skill are priceless
REAL PLAYERS DO NOT NEED CHEATS
Remember, using cheats is not playing the game; it is risking your system and data. If you truly want to be competitive and successful, the way is not through cheats but through reflexes, strategy, teamwork, and practice.
TIP: SCAN YOUR COMPUTER
If cheats have been used on a computer before or if you suspect, you can scan with these tools:
- Malwarebytes Anti-Malware
- AdwCleaner
- Windows Defender (should be kept up to date)
- Reliable antivirus software like Kaspersky / Bitdefender
- HijackThis (for advanced users)
CONCLUSION
In-game cheats not only disrupt the balance of the game but also threaten your computer security, personal data, and even your online identity. No success that comes with cheats is permanent. If you want to improve your gaming skills, win, and have fun, stay away from cheats and reflect your abilities in a genuine way.
