Can anti-cheat software cause this?

Yes, kernel-level anti-cheat (EasyAntiCheat, Vanguard) can trigger this if they conflict with other kernel drivers.

Is this fixable or do I need new hardware?

If RAM tests fail, replace the RAM. If malware is found, clean it. If a driver is the cause, update or remove it.

Windows BSOD CRITICAL_STRUCTURE_CORRUPTION (0x00000109) — Kernel Integrity Failure

Criticalbsod

Overview

CRITICAL_STRUCTURE_CORRUPTION BSOD occurs when the kernel detects tampering with critical data structures, caused by faulty drivers, hardware, or rootkits.

Key Details

Stop code 0x00000109 — kernel data structure integrity check failed
Windows Kernel Patch Protection (PatchGuard) detected unexpected modification
Can indicate rootkit or malware tampering with kernel memory
Also caused by faulty RAM modifying kernel memory randomly
Drivers that hook kernel functions inappropriately trigger this

Common Causes

Faulty RAM randomly corrupting kernel data structures
Malicious software (rootkit) modifying kernel code or tables
Poorly written drivers patching kernel functions illegally
Incompatible virtualization or anti-cheat software hooking the kernel
Hardware failure in CPU or motherboard affecting memory integrity

Steps

1Run full antivirus and anti-rootkit scan (Malwarebytes, ESET Online Scanner)
2Run Windows Memory Diagnostic and MemTest86 for comprehensive RAM testing
3Uninstall recently installed drivers or software that hook the kernel (anti-cheat, VPN)
4Run sfc /scannow and DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth
5If RAM tests pass, test with minimal drivers by booting into Safe Mode