Many popular online multiplayer games now incorporate kernel-level anti-cheat systems to detect and prevent cheating. These programs operate with higher system privileges, allowing them to identify sophisticated hacks before they can affect gameplay. Recent trends also demand enhanced Windows security features, such as Secure Boot, TPM 2.0 modules, and virtualization-based memory protection.

Riot Games, renowned for titles like Valorant and League of Legends, has historically been proactive in adopting new anti-cheat measures. Their Vanguard system already enforces strict hardware and software checks. Now, the developer is implementing a new requirement: a BIOS update for certain players. This step follows the discovery of a UEFI firmware bug that could enable cheaters to bypass memory protections.

The issue involves the IOMMU (Input-Output Memory Management Unit) on some UEFI-based motherboards from multiple manufacturers. This hardware component safeguards system memory during startup by preventing unauthorized access from external devices. Exploiting this vulnerability could allow hackers to manipulate memory data, gaining an unfair advantage in gameplay.

According to experts, such hardware-level vulnerabilities highlight the importance of keeping firmware up-to-date to maintain security. Riot’s move aims to close loopholes that advanced cheaters might exploit, but it could also pose challenges for players with older or less common hardware configurations.

David Nield

Dave is a freelance tech journalist with over 20 years covering gadgets, apps, and the web. From Stockport, England, he covers news, features, and reviews for TechRadar, focusing on phones, tablets, and wearables. He ensures top weekend breaking news and has bylines at Gizmodo, T3, PopSci, and others. He edited PC Explorer and The Hardware Handbook for years. Read me on x.com or linkedin.