Denuvo Devs Introduce TraceMark. New 'Innovative' Feature Aims to Prevent Gameplay and Data Leaks
The developers of the Denuvo anti-piracy software, company Irdeto, unveiled a new technology that allows developers to place watermarks in games to help determine who is responsible for data leaks.
CD Projekt Red, Rockstar Games, Insomniac Games -- these are just a few companies that have fallen victim to data leaks in recent years. Despite the best efforts of security developers to minimize such threats, cybercriminals always manage to find a way to bypass them. Soon, however, online thieves will have a new opponent in the form of TraceMark -- the proprietary technology of the creators of Denuvo, Irdeto.
Revealed at GDC 2024, the tool works similarly to a watermark that allows developers to add a unique identifier to game files. This means that if something leaks onto the Internet that shouldn't, it will be easier for devs or publishers to find the source of the leak. In theory, this is expected to be a significant obstacle for people intending to make confidential data public (e.g. gameplay).
This innovative solution [...] represents a leap forward in protecting the creative and financial investments of game developers worldwide. [...] TraceMark is our commitment to ensuring that these valuable assets are safeguarded throughout their lifecycle -- explained Irdeto's SVP, Niels Haverkorn (via IGN).
According to information provided by the developers, TraceMark is intended to cover both invisible and visible watermarking techniques. The company noted that the technology would be especially valuable during game development, as programmers distribute copies for early testing, closed beta versions, and reviews.
Most gamers are familiar with the negative effects of Denuvo software on game performance. However, it's supposed to be different in the case of TraceMark. The developers promise that the technology will be able to protect the content of the game "without compromising the player's experience."
