Now's a good time to check in on your Steam account security

Engadget - May 14th, 2025

Steam, a leading gaming platform, has reportedly experienced a data breach, potentially exposing over 89 million user records. The claim stems from a hacker selling a database that allegedly includes user information obtained through one-time access codes issued by a third-party vendor. Initial reports incorrectly suggested cloud communication company Twilio was involved, but Steam has denied using their services. If the breach is verified, it could affect more than two-thirds of Steam's user base, raising significant concerns about data security on the platform.

Despite the uncertainty surrounding the details, this incident highlights the importance of robust online security practices. Valve offers the Steam Guard mobile authentication program to enhance account protection, and users are encouraged to regularly update their passwords and remain vigilant against phishing attempts. The situation underscores the need for users to adopt comprehensive security measures, including the use of password managers, to safeguard their personal information in the digital age.

Valve Phishing Steam Data Breach User Security Hacker Twilio Sms Codes Steam Guard

Story submitted by Fairstory

RATING

5.4

Moderately Fair

Read with skepticism

The news story addresses a potentially significant issue of a data breach involving Steam, a major gaming platform. While the topic is timely and of public interest, the article's accuracy is undermined by speculative claims and a lack of confirmed details. The focus on security practices is valuable, but the reliance on unconfirmed sources and the absence of multiple perspectives limit the story's balance and source quality. Clarity and readability are strengths, but greater transparency and authoritative sourcing would enhance the article's credibility and engagement. Overall, the story highlights important cybersecurity concerns but requires further verification and investigation to provide a comprehensive and reliable account.

Accuracy

The news story claims that Steam experienced a data breach involving 89 million user records, allegedly sold by a hacker. This claim is significant but requires verification. The story mentions that the breach may have involved a third-party vendor, with Twilio initially implicated, although Steam representatives deny using Twilio. These details are critical but unconfirmed, highlighting a need for further investigation. The story accurately advises users on security practices, which is corroborated by other sources. However, without confirmation of the breach, the accuracy is somewhat speculative.

Balance

The article primarily focuses on the potential breach and security recommendations, lacking multiple viewpoints. It mentions the claim of a breach and Valve's response but does not explore the perspectives of the alleged hacker, third-party vendors, or cybersecurity experts. This narrow focus could result in an imbalanced view, as it does not fully explore the broader implications or responses from all parties involved.

Clarity

The language and structure of the article are generally clear, with a straightforward presentation of the alleged breach and security advice. However, the speculative nature of the claims and lack of confirmed details may confuse readers. The article effectively communicates the importance of security practices but could benefit from a clearer distinction between confirmed facts and speculation.

Source quality

The story cites a LinkedIn post and a Steam representative as sources, but it lacks direct quotes or detailed information from authoritative sources such as Valve or cybersecurity experts. The reliance on a social media post and an unnamed representative diminishes the credibility. More robust sourcing from credible entities would enhance the reliability of the claims made.

Transparency

The article lacks transparency regarding its sources and the methodology used to verify the claims. While it mentions a LinkedIn post and a Steam representative, it does not provide detailed context or disclose how the information was obtained. Greater transparency about the sources and verification process would improve trust and understanding.