Valve Responds to Steam Security Breach Hearsay: Systems Remain Secure
Thus, you have heard some panic-inducing hearsay circulating on the internet about some massive Steam security breach possibly impacting millions of customers. It's the kind of headline that jumps your heart up. So, Valve, the fellows from Steam, has stepped in to quell the rumors, and their take is rather straightforward: Steam systems WEREN'T compromised, and there's no need to fret and modify your password.
Valve's Investigation into the Alleged Leak
Let's talk about what Valve has reported. They've looked into the so-called "leak" and concluded it wasn't an attack on Steam itself. What seems to have happened was some older SMS text messages had come up. They were single-use codes – the kind only for use for, say, approximately 15 minutes – and phone numbers they had been sent to.
Here's the key: Valve indicates that this leaked information did not include those phone numbers linked to existing Steam accounts. It also did not have any password information, payment information, or other personal sensitive information. Think of it like finding an old, expired coupon; it might be fascinating to see, but it cannot be utilized for anything.
Valve is still investigating where these ancient SMS messages came from. They say that SMS messages are not encrypted as they travel to your phone and pass through several providers, which makes it hard to know where they are coming from.
Assessing Your Steam Account Risk
No, Valve responds. No old text messages and their outdated codes will suffice to gain entry to your Steam account. And whenever a code is ever utilized in order to change your Steam email or password via SMS, you get an email confirmation and/or a secured message via Steam itself. This is an important security check.
Valve's bottom line: You don't need to change your passwords or phone numbers because of this attack.
Good Security Habits to Remember
Valve does say this is a good reminder to always keep on your toes. If you're ever receiving any account security notices that you never signed up for, treat them suspiciously. Always a good thing to watch out for your Steam account security. You can see it at any moment by visiting the official Steam security page (you can find the link on Steam's official site).
They also recommend, if you have not done so, that you download the Steam Mobile Authenticator. This program provides a more secure way for Valve to send you important messages about your account and its security.
Addressing Reports of Alleged Data Sale
The initial reports were said to have been from an alleged hacker (with the username Machine1337 or EnergyWeapon) trying to sell what claimed to be Valve user data for its services on the dark net for around $5,000. Valve, in its observations, however, states that if this is even the data it is talking about, it will be useless to any malicious purpose.
Rational Perspective on Steam Security
Thus, the first sensationalist headlines might be cause for concern, but Valve's explanation provides a much more rational perspective. Keep practicing sound account hygiene, and your Steam adventures should be okay.
