Discover the thrilling realm of online gaming, where exhilarating virtual adventures and thrilling challenges await you. This captivating form of entertainment has skyrocketed in popularity, with the global industry valued at a staggering $152 billion. Experts predict a remarkable growth rate of 9% over the next five years.
However, the number of threats for gamers is growing at the same speed. This comprehensive guide is specifically crafted to equip you with invaluable knowledge about the dangers of engaging with strangers online while gaming. We will also give advice on gaming security.
Most Common Online Gaming Risks
Let’s identify the potential dangers:
- Cybersecurity threats: These threats are aimed at stealing personal information, including identity theft and other sensitive data.
- Malware: Just like any other online activity, online gaming exposes you to the risk of malware infection. Malicious software can be transmitted through downloads, links, or even ads without your knowledge.
- Phishing attacks: They involve tricking you or your child into providing login information through fake login pages or deceptive emails. Falling victim to these scams can grant hackers access to your account.
- Online scams and frauds: Virtual currency and item exchanges in online games can be subject to scams and fraud.
- Gaming addiction: Online gaming can become highly addictive, interfering with other aspects of life.
How to Improve Gamer Cyber Security?
#1 Use a Strong Password or Passphrase
Choosing a strong password or passphrase is perhaps the most well-known basic tip for internet safety. So, definitely avoid using your pet’s name, your birthday, or the name of a loved one. These personal details can easily be found online, especially on social media.
Here’s how you can set a secure passphrase:
- Make sure your passphrase has at least 12 characters.
- Opt for memorable sentences or phrases that are unique.
- Create different passwords for your gaming accounts and make sure none of your banking, social media, or other personal accounts share these passwords.
- Enhance your security by using two- or multi-factor authentication. For example, you can enable a one-time code that’s generated and sent to your mobile device when you log in. This additional step ensures that you’re logging in securely.
#2 Use a VPN
With a VPN app, you can protect yourself from most of the listed vulnerabilities. VPN for gaming can protect data, prevent DDoS attacks, and fight phishing and viruses. If you use an advanced VPN like VeePN, you can even improve your gaming experience. It can prevent Internet channel throttling and optimize the connection.
#3 Don’t Take The Bait
Cybercriminals have a cunning strategy to lure gamers into their trap – they offer cheats or hacks, enticing users to click on bad links or download malicious files. This deceptive tactic, known as phishing, can be highly dangerous. Therefore, it is crucial to exercise caution when clicking on unfamiliar links or downloading unexpected files. If an offer appears too good to be true, it likely is. Before clicking on any link, hover your cursor over it to reveal its actual destination. Always stay vigilant and protect yourself from potential threats.
#4 Keep Your Personal Information Secure
Be mindful when entering the world of online gaming. Do not disclose your real name or personal information to players or suspicious apps. Keep your gaming profiles limited in the amount of visible information. This way, you can safeguard yourself against hackers who might exploit such data and attempt identity theft.
#5 Pick an Anonymous Username
PII encompasses various elements such as birthdays, names (including middle names), age, and more. While this information may appear harmless, even the tiniest fragment can be exploited by threat actors to target you online. Therefore, it is crucial to select a completely anonymous username to prevent online gamers from associating your account with the digital footprint linked to your actual name.
#6 Keep Your Computer Clean and Secure
When it comes to ensuring the security of your gaming account, it’s not just about that. It expands to encompass the safety of your computer and internet connection as well.
Nowadays, most computers come equipped with at least one layer of protection. However, it’s always a good idea to add an extra layer by installing a reliable antivirus program. Look for one that offers comprehensive internet security, allowing it to thoroughly scan your desktop and mobile activities, including various gaming sites and platforms.
Similarly, it’s equally important to ensure the security of your internet connection. Set up a strong Wi-Fi password and take a moment to log in to your router to verify that there are no unknown devices connected to your network.
#7 Make Updates Automatic
We recommend keeping your gaming hardware and software as updated as possible. You don’t have to check your Settings tab every morning. Instead, you can usually set up automatic updates so that updates are downloaded and installed as soon as they become available from the device, software, or app creator. It’s important to note that you might have to restart your device for the updates to fully install. It is usually best to do this right away. However, you can often schedule this to happen during times when you aren’t gaming, like the middle of the night. You can also choose the early afternoon as an alternative time for the installation process.
Conclusion
Online gaming can be a fun activity. However, it’s important to be aware of the potential risks associated with it. Cyberthreats such as hacking, malware, and phishing attacks can lead to theft of personal information and financial loss. Additionally, online scams and fraud pose risks as well. Gamers can be tricked into purchasing fake or duplicate versions of games. Gaming addiction is another issue that impacts gamers. Excessive playing can lead to isolating behavior and other problems. Fortunately, there are steps gamers can take to stay safe.
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