Activision Temporarily Suspends PC Access to Call of Duty: WWII Due to Major Security Flaw

In a significant move, Activision has suspended the PC version of Call of Duty: WWII following alarming reports of a critical security vulnerability. On Saturday, the company announced the removal of the game from online play due to “an issue.” However, further investigations revealed that the problem was far more serious than a mere technical hiccup.

Multiple sources have identified the game as being vulnerable to a remote code execution (RCE) exploit. This serious flaw allows cybercriminals to seize control of other players’ computers during live multiplayer sessions. With this exploit, hackers can execute commands, launch applications like Notepad, forcibly shut down systems, and even alter desktop wallpapers.

This vulnerability specifically impacts PC gamers, particularly those accessing the game through Game Pass and potentially Steam. Fortunately, console players remain unaffected, as their systems do not permit such types of code execution.

The root of the vulnerability lies in the game’s peer-to-peer (P2P) network structure, where one player’s machine serves as the host. This architecture can create security loopholes, making it easier for attackers to infiltrate other players’ systems during gameplay.

Players have reported alarming experiences, such as witnessing command prompts opening spontaneously, receiving messages from hackers, or having their computers unexpectedly rebooted during matches.

Just days ago, Call of Duty: WWII was added to Microsoft’s Game Pass, leading to an influx of new players and heightened risks. Although the game is six years old, this recent attention has spotlighted its security flaws.

The Call of Duty community has expressed similar concerns in the past, with many players steering clear of older titles on Steam due to prevalent hacking issues. However, this RCE vulnerability poses a far greater threat than standard in-game cheating.

As of now, there is no official timeline for when the game will be reinstated for online play. Players are hopeful that Activision will enhance its Ricochet anti-cheat system to mitigate such attacks in the future, though it remains uncertain whether Ricochet will address this specific vulnerability.

In the meantime, players are strongly advised to refrain from launching the game on PC, especially via Game Pass or the Microsoft Store. Experts also recommend keeping antivirus software up to date and staying vigilant for updates from Activision regarding patches or fixes.