Steam players should be cautious when downloading custom backgrounds, as a recent discovery revealed malicious software hidden within some Wallpaper Engine files.
Cybersecurity firm Kaspersky has issued a warning that hackers are concealing harmful software within wallpaper files downloaded through Wallpaper Engine, a widely used app on Steam for customizing games and desktops.
The report revealed that numerous infected wallpapers were found online, and some had been downloaded thousands of times before anyone noticed. This malicious software was created to steal user accounts and private data from computers it infected.
Steam wallpapers are hacking users’ accounts
According to researchers, this online campaign began in late 2025 and mainly focused on users in China and Russia. However, people in other countries – including Germany, India, Singapore, Canada, Hong Kong, and Vietnam – were also affected.
Steam wasn’t directly hacked, but attackers found a way to sneak malicious software onto the platform. They disguised harmful files within user-submitted content that seemed safe. Sometimes, these infected uploads – like wallpapers – would appear normal while secretly causing problems with a user’s Steam games.
Wallpaper Engine lets Steam users personalize their desktops with animated backgrounds. While generally safe, these wallpapers are different from regular pictures because they can actually run programs. This creates a potential security risk, as malicious software could be hidden within a wallpaper and appear to be normal.
If you often download files from the Steam Workshop, be cautious when adding wallpapers or apps from people you don’t know. Experts suggest checking the creator’s history, seeing what other users say about them, and making sure your antivirus software is running before downloading anything.
Kaspersky advises users to verify who created any wallpapers they download before installing them. They also suggest using security software to help catch potential problems quickly.
If you’re worried your wallpaper might contain malware, it’s best to scan your computer for viruses and update the passwords for your key accounts – particularly Steam, your email, and any services linked to your payment methods.
Because Steam is the most popular place to buy and play PC games, it’s often targeted by hackers. Earlier this year, one game was taken off the platform when it was found to be secretly collecting users’ passwords.
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2026-06-17 13:51