How I Fell for the “Test My Game” Scam: A Cautionary Tale and Recovery Steps

Recently, I experienced a cyber security breach that served as a valuable lesson in online safety. I’m sharing my story to help others avoid the same fate.

The Incident

I received a message from two long-time Discord accounts that I believed I could trust. They asked me to download a game for testing purposes. In hindsight, I realize that my familiarity with these accounts didn’t justify the risk I took. Foolishly, I executed the file they provided, only to be contacted later by a third account that showed proof of being logged into my Google account.

Initial Response

Fortunately, I had a backup device at hand. I immediately disconnected my main computer from the internet and logged out of all my accounts on Google and Discord. I also began the process of resetting my passwords, particularly since they were saved on Google, and I enabled two-factor authentication (2FA) wherever it was available.

To further safeguard my system, I performed a clean installation of Windows 11. While this action only wiped the drive containing the operating system, I didn’t stop there. After running a full scan with Windows Defender, I decided to enhance my security measures by installing Avast and Malwarebytes to conduct additional scans. My computer remains offline as a precaution.

Seeking Help

For those who might be wondering, I have identified the potential malware on a website called oblivora dot com. If anyone feels confident in identifying threats safely, I would appreciate your insights.

Moving Forward

Although I prefer not to erase all of my drives, I am considering it if necessary. If anyone can recommend reliable tools or methods for a comprehensive drive wipe, I would be grateful for your suggestions.

Conclusion

Reflecting on this experience, I believe I’ve taken significant steps to secure my accounts and eliminate the malicious software. However, I’m curious: Did I cover all the bases? What additional measures could I implement to ensure my online safety in the future?

Sharing experiences can be crucial in the fight against cyber threats. Stay vigilant, and let’s keep our digital spaces secure!