PUP.MSIL.Gamehack.ZE
Threat Scorecard
EnigmaSoft Threat Scorecard
EnigmaSoft Threat Scorecards are assessment reports for different malware threats which have been collected and analyzed by our research team. EnigmaSoft Threat Scorecards evaluate and rank threats using several metrics including real-world and potential risk factors, trends, frequency, prevalence, and persistence. EnigmaSoft Threat Scorecards are updated regularly based on our research data and metrics and are useful for a wide range of computer users, from end users seeking solutions to remove malware from their systems to security experts analyzing threats.
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Popularity Rank: The ranking of a particular threat in EnigmaSoft’s Threat Database.
Severity Level: The determined severity level of an object, represented numerically, based on our risk modeling process and research, as explained in our Threat Assessment Criteria.
Infected Computers: The number of confirmed and suspected cases of a particular threat detected on infected computers as reported by SpyHunter.
See also Threat Assessment Criteria.
| Threat Level: | 10 % (Normal) |
| First Seen: | July 2, 2024 |
| OS(es) Affected: | Windows |
PUP.MSIL.Gamehack.ZE is a detection name used to identify a potentially unwanted program (PUP) that targets Windows systems. Unlike traditional malware, this type of program is not always installed maliciously or without any user interaction, but it still carries behaviors and risks that most users would not knowingly accept. In this case, the detection is associated with a file disguised as a game-related launcher, specifically presenting itself under the name "Valiant Cabal Launcher," tied to an MMORPG-style application.
Table of Contents
What PUP.MSIL.Gamehack.ZE Does
This program is built using the .NET framework and is packaged as a 32-bit Windows executable. While it is not packed in the traditional sense (meaning its code isn't compressed or obfuscated to hide its contents), analysis shows it uses encryption routines, including the Rijndael algorithm, which can be used to protect or hide certain data or functionality within the program. It also contains code capable of checking whether a debugger is present and querying system information, both of which are techniques often seen in software that wants to avoid analysis or detection by security researchers. Additionally, the program is capable of adjusting token privileges, a technique that can be used to gain elevated permissions on a system, and accessing user-related data such as locale settings and user object information.
While the presence of a legitimate-sounding file description and product name tied to a game launcher may make the program appear harmless, the behaviors noted above are consistent with "gamehack" style PUPs — programs that often claim to modify or enhance game functionality but may instead introduce unwanted or risky behavior onto a system.
How It Usually Gets Onto Computers
Programs like this are typically downloaded by users seeking game modifications, cheats, trainers, or unofficial game launchers. They may also be bundled with other free software, downloaded from unofficial or third-party websites, or shared through forums and file-sharing platforms that lack proper vetting. In many cases, users install these programs without fully realizing the scope of what is being added to their system, often because the bundling or installation process is not made clear.
Risks for the User
Although this detection carries a low danger rating, that does not mean it is entirely risk-free. Programs in this category can use anti-debugging and system-checking techniques, which may indicate an attempt to operate without being noticed or analyzed. The use of encryption routines in combination with privilege adjustment functions could suggest that the program is designed to perform actions beyond what a simple game launcher would require. In general, PUPs can also lead to unwanted side effects such as unexpected changes to browser settings, display of advertisements, or installation of additional unwanted components, even if this particular sample's full behavior is not completely documented.
Signs of Infection
Users may notice an executable file with a game-related name, such as a launcher for an MMORPG, appearing on their system without a clear recollection of installing it. Other signs typical of this category include unexpected system slowdowns, unfamiliar processes running in the background, or unusual permission prompts related to elevated privileges.
How to Stay Protected
To reduce the risk of encountering PUPs like this one, users should avoid downloading game modifications, trainers, or launchers from unofficial or unverified sources. Always review installation prompts carefully, especially during the setup of free software, to avoid inadvertently installing bundled extras. Keeping an up-to-date antivirus or anti-malware solution active, along with routine system scans, can also help detect and remove unwanted programs before they cause further issues.
Analysis Report
General information
| Family Name: | PUP.MSIL.Gamehack.ZE |
|---|---|
| Signature status: | No Signature |
Known Samples
Known Samples
This section lists other file samples believed to be associated with this family.|
MD5:
c330aa919cee5113c58618e3d8ab895e
SHA1:
7b97fd5f5681ef63d93c769515ec3b2b4235274a
SHA256:
C6E3AA5E5F2F2F3F159DA55700AB6C35D8493DC538849F7262643E3998937B59
File Size:
60.93 KB, 60928 bytes
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Windows Portable Executable Attributes
- File doesn't have "Rich" header
- File doesn't have exports table
- File doesn't have security information
- File is .NET application
- File is 32-bit executable
- File is either console or GUI application
- File is GUI application (IMAGE_SUBSYSTEM_WINDOWS_GUI)
- File is not packed
- IMAGE_FILE_DLL is not set inside PE header (Executable)
- IMAGE_FILE_EXECUTABLE_IMAGE is set inside PE header (Executable Image)
File Icons
File Icons
This section displays icon resources found within family samples. Malware often replicates icons commonly associated with legitimate software to mislead users into believing the malware is safe.
Windows PE Version Information
Windows PE Version Information
This section displays values and attributes that have been set in the Windows file version information data structure for samples within this family. To mislead users, malware actors often add fake version information mimicking legitimate software.| Name | Value |
|---|---|
| Assembly Version | 1.0.0.1 |
| Comments | Valiant Cabal Launcher |
| Company Name | MMORPG Valiant |
| File Description | Valiant Cabal Launcher |
| File Version | 1.0.0.1 |
| Internal Name | cabal.exe |
| Legal Copyright | Copyright © MMORPG Valiant Cabal 2026 |
| Legal Trademarks | www.cabal-valiant.com |
| Original Filename | cabal.exe |
| Product Name | Valiant Cabal Launcher |
| Product Version | 1.0.0.1 |
File Traits
- .NET
- HighEntropy
- RijndaelManaged
- x86
Block Information
Block Information
During analysis, EnigmaSoft breaks file samples into logical blocks for classification and comparison with other samples. Blocks can be used to generate malware detection rules and to group file samples into families based on shared source code, functionality and other distinguishing attributes and characteristics. This section lists a summary of this block data, as well as its classification by EnigmaSoft. A visual representation of the block data is also displayed, where available.| Total Blocks: | 69 |
|---|---|
| Potentially Malicious Blocks: | 24 |
| Whitelisted Blocks: | 43 |
| Unknown Blocks: | 2 |
Visual Map
? - Unknown Block
x - Potentially Malicious Block
Similar Families
Similar Families
This section lists other families that share similarities with this family, based on EnigmaSoft’s analysis. Many malware families are created from the same malware toolkits and use the same packing and encryption techniques but uniquely extend functionality. Similar families may also share source code, attributes, icons, subcomponents, compromised and/or invalid digital signatures, and network characteristics. Researchers leverage these similarities to rapidly and effectively triage file samples and extend malware detection rules.- MSIL.Androm.B
- MSIL.Androm.D
- MSIL.Androm.DB
- MSIL.Gamehack.ZE
- MSIL.Gametool.B
Windows API Usage
Windows API Usage
This section lists Windows API calls that are used by the samples in this family. Windows API usage analysis is a valuable tool that can help identify malicious activity, such as keylogging, security privilege escalation, data encryption, data exfiltration, interference with antivirus software, and network request manipulation.| Category | API |
|---|---|
| User Data Access |
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| Encryption Used |
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| Anti Debug |
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| Other Suspicious |
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