Ep 3. Avatar

Unit 42 season 1 episode 3, titled "Avatar," follows the Belgian cybercrime unit as they investigate a case involving a popular online game. The episode starts with a teenager who has spent a substantial amount of money on in-game purchases being hacked and robbed of all his virtual belongings. The victim's parents file a report with the authorities, and Unit 42 is called to investigate.

The team comprises of Billie [Constance Gay], a former hacker, Sam [Tom Audenaert], a seasoned detective, Bob [Michel de Warzee], a technology expert, and Nassim [Roda Fawaz], a junior cyber expert. Their investigation leads them into the world of the online game- "Avatar," where they come across a hacking group involved in selling virtual goods and avatars using untraceable cryptocurrencies.

The episode highlights the dark side of the gaming world, including the potential dangers of online gaming and the anonymity it offers users. Through their investigation, the Unit 42 team learns that virtual theft is not a new phenomenon, and that the vast amounts of money involved in the virtual market can be as attractive to criminals as the physical world's real assets. The case takes a dramatic turn when one of the suspects goes missing, which leads the team on a frantic search for the suspect, leading them to an unconventional location.

As the investigation unfolds, each member of the team contends with their personal demons, including their challenging approaches, weaknesses, limitations, and vulnerabilities.

Billie faces a moral dilemma when a hacker she knows well reaches out for her help, which may pose ethical concerns for the team. Meanwhile, Bob, a loyal member, struggles with a personal crisis and is forced to choose between his loyalties. Sam, the team's experienced investigator, takes a backseat, allowing Nassim, the junior member of the team, to shine bright and prove that he is a valuable addition to the team.

Overall, Unit 42 season 1 episode 3, "Avatar," is an interesting and informative episode that highlights the internet's mining depths and the possible risks involved in online gaming. The episode showcases the team's expertise in utilizing their technological and investigative skills to solve the case. The viewers are entertained and educated while watching the team navigate through the twists and turns of the investigation, all while wrestling with their personal demons and fortitude.