In April 2025, Chinese law enforcement, in cooperation with Perfect World, uncovered a large-scale scheme involving the development and sale of AI cheats for Counter-Strike:Global Offensive. As a result of the operation, two suspects were arrested, computer equipment was seized, and over a thousand accounts using the illegal software were identified. This case highlights the growing threat that cheating poses to the modern esports ecosystem.
Cheating in CS2 in 2025: As Technology Advances, So Do the Threats
In 2025, the issue of cheating in Counter-Strike 2 has reached a new level. Advances in artificial intelligence and computer vision have made it possible to create cheats that are increasingly difficult to detect. AI plugins can recognize enemies on the screen, automatically aim and shoot, and even evade anti-cheat systems. This presents serious challenges for game developers, tournament organizers, and fair players who are forced to compete under unfair conditions.
Despite regular updates to anti-cheat systems, malicious actors continue to find new ways to bypass protections. This not only damages the gameplay experience but also undermines trust in the entire CS ecosystem. The problem is especially acute on regional servers, where local services must contend with their own challenges.
Chinese Police, With Support From Perfect World, Bust AI Cheat Operation
In April 2025, the Cybersecurity Department of Yanggu County (Shandong Province), in cooperation with Chinese game operator Perfect World, successfully cracked a case involving the development and sale of AI cheats for Counter-Strike: Global Offensive. Authorities arrested two key suspects — cheat developer Wu Moupeng and his sales agent Wu Mouteng. During the operation, multiple devices were confiscated, and over 1,000 accounts were found to have used the illegal software.
The cheat, which drew the attention of investigators, used image recognition and AI to enable automatic aiming and shooting while bypassing game protections. The perpetrators promoted the software through Chinese platforms like Bilibili and Douyin, uploading gameplay videos to attract buyers. Perfect World provided the police with detailed evidence, acted swiftly to support the investigation, and upheld a “zero-tolerance” policy on cheating.
What This Means for the Game and Its Players
This case is a clear example of how cooperation between developers and law enforcement can effectively fight cheating. For players, it sends a strong message: the law is catching up with digital crimes, and real-world consequences can follow virtual misconduct.
Such efforts help to clean up the gaming environment, rebuild trust in the platform, and create a healthy foundation for competitive integrity. If developers, communities, and authorities continue to work together, CS2 has a real chance to become a fair and secure experience for all players.
Source: csgo.com.cn
