New Street Fighter V Update Demands Kernel Access

The latest PC update for Capcom’s beat ‘em up sequel Street Fighter V has sparked security concerns since it requires kernel-level access, which would grant it access to the whole computer. Reddit user LoGlcMoTion – plus a number of Steam users – has reported the issue on the Street Fighter subreddit, writing, “I own 80 games on steam and none of them do this so this is just a bit sketchy for me.”

The kernel access request is thought to be part of Capcom’s planned “client-side security update,” which was listed as a feature for Street Fighter V’s September update.

“As a part of the new content and system update releasing later today, we’re also rolling out an updated anti-crack solution (note: not DRM) that prevents certain users from hacking the executable,” Capcom wrote on Steam on Thursday (22^nd September). “The solution also prevents memory address hack that are commonly used for cheating and illicitly obtaining in-game currency and other entitlements that haven’t been purchased yet.”

“The anti-crack solution does not require online connectivity in order to play the game in offline mode; however, players will be required to click-confirm each time they boot up the game,” the post added. “This step allows ‘handshake’ to take place between the executable and the dependent driver prior to launch.”

Following the backlash from affected Street Fighter V players, Capcom has revealed that it will be “rolling back” these security measures.

We are in the process of rolling back the security measures added to the PC version of Street Fighter V.

— Street Fighter (@StreetFighter) September 23, 2016