Valve, the publisher of popular first-person shooter game Counter-Strike: Global Offensive (CS: GO), has taken action against around 40 CS: GO traders who allegedly have ties to gambling sites involved in a cryptocurrency laundering scheme.
CS:GO, known for its extensive skin trading economy, has been plagued by both legitimate and illicit money-making activities over the years. Recently, Valve has banned several prominent trader accounts, including those associated with CSGORoll, a platform where players can purchase in-game skins using real-world currency.
According to information shared by a representative of rival site CSGO Empire on Twitter, the banned traders were reportedly using “illegal, unlicensed websites that engage in money laundering.” It is estimated that these traders collectively amassed approximately $12.7 million in cryptocurrency over the past month.
The owner of CSGORoll has responded to the ban on Twitter, denying any involvement in a money laundering scheme. They assert that their platform is not classified as a casino in major markets due to the absence of cash withdrawals. Furthermore, they state that contracted skin suppliers are prohibited from playing games on the platform and are compensated with cryptocurrency for their skins, ensuring a compliant and liquid marketplace.
Community-banned accounts in CS:GO are now unable to trade in-game items, leaving valuable items worth millions of dollars in a state of uncertainty. Despite being released in 2012, CS:GO continues to maintain a substantial player base, often surpassing one million players in a 24-hour period. Valve is expected to release a sequel, Counter-Strike 2, later this year.
Valve’s crackdown on CS:GO traders involved in the cryptocurrency laundering scheme reflects the company’s commitment to maintaining the integrity of its games and ensuring a fair and secure gaming environment.