Minecraft Hackers Put Up A Whole Bunch Of Non-public Login Details Online

Microsoft was in the news at Christmas, when its Xbox One service was infiltrated by hackers, and is now facing the same problem.

According to reports on a German website claim that a list of 1,800 Microsoft-owned Minecraft usernames and passwords has been released online.

A security expert warns that criminals could gain access to these information and possibly hack into accounts, change settings, or even purchase virtual items.

Heise Online reported the hack and a large number of the verified accounts (selection shown) are believed to be belonging to German gamers. It is unclear how the hackers gained access on the credentials, but security analyst Graham Cluely wrote : 'Possibilities could be a result of malware, phishing attacks or even a security breach'

The hack was discovered by Heise Online, and many of the verified accounts are believed to be belonging to German gamers.

Although it's not certain how the hackers gained the credentials, security analyst Graham Cluely posted on the Hot for Security blog: "Possibilities vary from simple attacks on phishing, keylogging malware taking players' information as the game starts or even a security breach at Minecraft.

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'Let's hope it's not the last time - as the game has more than 100 million registered players.'

However an Microsoft spokesperson told MailOnline"We are able to confirm that there was not a Mojang.net service was compromised.

"Normal procedures to deal with situations like this were put in place to reset passwords for the tiny amount of affected accounts.'

Minecraft was first created in 2009.

A character is placed into the "virtually infinite" game world at the start of the game.

Players are provided with blocks and tools to construct cities and towns.

The game was originally developed for the PC but there are now Xbox 360 and mobile versions available.'

Based on the massive number of registered users The hack is comparatively small.

However, Mr Cluely pointed out that unauthorised users could use the unsecured email addresses or passwords to access other gamesworlds, and download the full game which is typically priced at EUR19.95 Euros ($26.95 or PS17.95).

Cybercriminals can also get access to an individual's email address to hack other accounts or send malware, or send spam.

Cluely added that there's no guarantee that the hacker who is responsible for this list doesn't possess more money.

In September, Microsoft purchased Mojang for $2.5 billion (PS1.5 Billion).

The game is accessible on PCs as well as Androids, iOS, Windows Phone and Windows Phone. It also can be played on consoles like the Xbox One or PlayStation 4.

However there is a Microsoft spokesperson told MailOnline that no Mojang.net service was compromised. Although the amount of released information is only a tiny fraction of the game's 100 million players however, Mr Cluely stated that there is no guarantee that the hacker who published this list doesn't have more 'in their back pocket'

At the start of the game, a player is placed in a 'virtually infinite game world.' The character can then explore different terrains, including mountains, forests and caves.

The game has become a worldwide phenomenon, with more than 16645,000 players having purchased it.

YouTube channels are available that provide tutorials on how to play the game. In some instances the owners may quit their jobs by advertising.