Security Alert for All Gamers: Beware of Phishing Scams Involving Fake Playtest Invites

Phishing Alert: Fake SAND Steam Playtest Invites Targeting Gamers

Related coverage: Security & Scam Alerts.

Related: Security & Scam Alerts.

This warning documents the fake playtest campaign seen in April 2025. Verify any current SAND testing or access through the game’s official Steam page and developer channels.

Attention, gamers: A phishing campaign was targeting Steam users with fraudulent playtest invites for SAND. The messages were designed to look legitimate while directing players toward credential-stealing links.

There Was No Official SAND Playtest Behind These Messages

At the time of this April 2025 warning, the messages we were documenting were not tied to an official SAND playtest. Players should verify any current testing through the game’s official Steam page and developer channels rather than trusting unsolicited links.

How to Protect Your Account from Steam Phishing Scams

As phishing tactics become more sophisticated, gamers must remain cautious and informed. Here’s what you can do to stay safe:

1. Verify Sources

• Only trust invites from official Steam or game developer accounts.
• Double-check the sender’s email or URL — real invites come from known domains.

2. Recognize Red Flags

• Beware of urgency, poor grammar, or offers that seem too good to be true.
• Suspicious links that don’t match official websites are a major red flag.

3. Use Enhanced Security

• Enable two-factor authentication (2FA) on Steam and all gaming accounts.
• Activate Steam Guard for additional login protection.

4. Avoid Suspicious Links

• Do not click on random playtest links shared via DMs, forums, or emails.
• Never download files from unverified sources.

5. Maintain Strong Passwords

• Use complex, unique passwords and update them regularly.
• Consider a password manager for secure storage and generation.

6. Report Phishing Attempts

• Report scams to Steam and game developers to prevent further abuse.
• Help the community by sharing verified warnings and phishing patterns.

Stay Informed and Game Safely

Always be cautious with unsolicited messages and invites. If in doubt, verify through the game’s official channels. Together, we can keep the gaming space safe and secure for all.

Written by Ronny Fiksdahl, Founder & Editor-in-Chief of Fix Gaming Channel.

Send interview pitches, corrections, tips, or developer stories to contact@fixgamingchannel.com.

Support independent games coverage on Ko-fi.