14 DAY TRIAL // A security issue has been found within the Origin digital distribution service as hackers can use a flaw in the program to execute malicious files that can give them complete access to a victim's computer.
Electronic Arts' Origin service has received a lot of criticism in recent weeks due to the problematic launch of SimCity, the new installment in the long-running franchise, as the servers weren't able to cope with the huge number of fans.
Now, security firm ReVuln, via Ars Technica, has uncovered a security flaw relating to Origin's URI handling mechanic.
Simply put, because Origin uses special address links to run games (like Origin://LaunchGame/example), hackers can trick gamers into accessing modified links that point to malicious files.
These files, when executed, can give complete access of other individuals to a PC.
EA has released a statement, saying that "Our team is constantly investigating hypotheticals like this one as we continually update our security infrastructure."
A similar security flaw was also encountered with Steam last year, as it also used a special link protocol to run its games.