Path of Exile 2 Developer Addresses Major Data Breach

Grinding Gear Games, the developer behind Path of Exile, has issued a public apology following a significant data breach earlier this month. The breach stemmed from a compromised Steam test account possessing administrator privileges. This allowed unauthorized access to over 66 player accounts.

Enhanced Security Measures Promised

The breach involved a long-standing test account lacking crucial security features like linked phone numbers or addresses. This vulnerability allowed a hacker to deceive Steam support, gaining access using minimal information (email, account name, and a strategically used VPN).

The hacker exploited the compromised account to reset passwords on numerous PoE 1 and PoE 2 accounts, cleverly deleting password change notifications to avoid detection. Sensitive data accessed included email addresses, Steam IDs, IP addresses, shipping addresses, unlock codes, transaction histories, and private messages. Grinding Gear Games acknowledges the potential misuse of this information.

In response, the developers have implemented stricter security protocols for administrator accounts, including enhanced IP restrictions and a ban on linking third-party accounts to staff accounts. They expressed deep regret for the security lapse and pledged further improvements to prevent future incidents.

The community response has been mixed, with some praising the developer's transparency while others advocate for the immediate implementation of two-factor authentication (2FA). While the future inclusion of 2FA remains uncertain, players are urged to change their passwords and remain vigilant about their account security.