Hackfest 2023 - Back to the Future

James Li

James is currently a security advisor at an insurance company in Montreal. He has worked in the field of both offensive and defensive security. His interest in information security initially developed through video games. Subsequently, he decided to pursue this path by studying Computer Science with a focus on infosec. Along the way, James has obtained various certifications such as OSCP, CISSP, CBBH, etc. He also has a strong interest in game hacking, also known as "Gamepwn". This is a relatively lesser-known area within the broader context of information security, and James aims to bring this topic to a wider audience.


Your pronouns – he/him/his Which country are you from? – Canada

Talks

GamePwn 101 - Introduction to Game Hacking

In the rapidly evolving landscape of gaming, understanding the realm of game hacking is essential, especially in multiplayer games. While some people engage in game hacking for fun or as a hobby, others use it to cheat and gain an advantage in online multiplayer games, which can ruin the experience for other players. As we delve together into this captivating subject, I will explore the fundamentals of game hacking, including its definition, real-world examples, common methods employed by hackers, and the measures implemented to counter such exploits.

Discover the intriguing world of cheats, bots, and exploits that have impacted the gaming industry. I will showcase notable instances where game hacking has disrupted fair play and affected player experiences. By examining these examples, I aim to raise awareness about the potential consequences and implications of game hacking. Furthermore, we will delve into the various techniques employed by hackers, such as memory editing, code injection, and packet manipulation. Understanding these methods is vital to recognize vulnerabilities and formulating effective countermeasures.

The discussion will also encompass the proactive steps taken by game developers to combat cheating, including encryption, client-server validation, behavior monitoring, and regular updates. By understanding these anti-cheat measures, we can gain insights into the ongoing battle between game developers and hackers. Lastly, we will explore the future of game hacking within the broader information security landscape, considering emerging technologies, evolving security measures, and the potential impact on the gaming industry.