"Over the next few days we'll be removing all TF2 items that were earned using external idling applications," said Valve's Erik Johnson, who noted that 4.5% of TF2 players will be affected by the measure.

In the future, users caught using external programs to idle in Team Fortress 2 servers will have all of their items wiped.

"Meanwhile, everyone who took the moral high road will soon be finding a new hat in their inventory," Johnson added. "We've also significantly increased the chance of finding any of the existing hats."

Valve is currently working on new systems to enhance the item system, including trading mechanics, and a combination system that would allow two duplicate items to be melded into a desired reward.