Riot Games updated the Vanguard anti-cheat system for Valorant to block DMA cheating hardware through IOMMU restrictions. The update permanently breaks firmware on affected SATA and NVMe storage devices, even after players close the game or uninstall the anti-cheat software. Users must perform a full operating system reinstall to restore normal functionality.
Anti-cheat patch blocks PCIe spoofing cards via IOMMU restrictions
The patch targets DMA cards that bypass standard security measures by connecting directly to memory. High-end hardware like the HEINO 2.0 PCIe card costs approximately $5,900 and now functions as an unusable paperweight. The IOMMU restart warning triggers during gameplay and creates permanent read blocks in the firmware.
Riot Games publicly mocked affected users on X by congratulating them on owning a new six-thousand-dollar paperweight. Engineer Daax clarified that the restriction only impacts systems with the Vanguard anti-cheat installed. DMA devices will operate normally if moved to computers without the block.
Some players argue that permanently destroying hardware crosses legal boundaries regardless of cheating context. A potential class action lawsuit may emerge as users question whether bricking expensive equipment violates consumer protection laws. Riot Games has not addressed these concerns publicly.
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