Akamai said cyber-attacks on gaming organizations skyrocketed 340% between 2021 and 2022.
As we all know, the previous year has been filled with tension to release and extra time to enjoy our hobbies. The volume of online gamers increased to 440 million between the first and second quarters of 2023.
Hackers use heavily used online gaming platforms to their advantage to profit on the dark web and these results in increasing online security risks. Consider the recent video game hacks the next time you log in to your preferred virtual environment, and increase your player security by adding a gaming antivirus if necessary.
Security Issues in Online Gaming
You must have a solid understanding of online security risks and the most significant dangers associated with gaming before you play your favourite multiplayer game in PC or the newest mobile craze. The following are some of these:
● Identity and data theft: – Identity theft and data is one of the most common concerns associated with participating in online activities such as gaming and other forms of online entertainment. Identity theft occurs when hackers can use your personal information maliciously.
● Phishing: – Phishing is a sort of online fraud that occurs when malicious software and operations are installed on a gaming platform by hackers with the intention of tricking gamers. Hackers can use your personal information to steal money from your accounts as soon as you click on these phishing links and fill in your information.
Tips for Safe and Secure Online Gaming
Do not expose or reveal your personal information.
In their public-facing usernames, gamers frequently use versions of their real names and birthdates. Use a username that does not contain your real name or birthdate.
Instead, think about using a nickname or a string of random numbers. Do not share personal information about yourself on chats or streams, such as your phone number, birthday, or frequented locations. Lurking cybercriminals can collect these personal details so they can impersonate you.
Play on only trustworthy websites.
Visiting a gaming site that is neither secure nor trustworthy can put you at risk of hacking or phishing fraud. You should only play a newly heard of game if you can confirm that the platform is safe.
Similarly, you should search elsewhere if a gaming website does not display a secure SSL certificate and lock icon. It is necessary for a website to buy SSL certificate and install it to enhance the trust of visitors.
Use a strong password or passphrase.
One of the most widely recognized fundamental tips for internet safety involves the selection of a robust password or passphrase.
To establish a secure passphrase, consider the following steps:
● Opt for a length of at least 18 characters.
● Utilise memorable sentences or phrases that are distinct.
● Employ separate passwords for your gaming accounts, ensuring no overlap with passwords used for banking, social media, or other personal accounts.
● Enhance security by implementing two- or multi-factor authentication. This might involve a one-time code sent to your mobile device upon login, offering an essential extra layer of confirmation for secure access.
However, it is crucial to continue creating a strong password. Given the increasing sophistication of hacking and phishing methods, maintaining the security of your gaming account necessitates regular password updates. Waiting for alerts about suspicious logins before modifying your credentials might leave your account vulnerable, so proactive updates are highly recommended.
Beware of cyberbullies
Users can connect when playing online games, and most of the time, this is beneficial for exchanging advice. However, careless individuals could utilise this ability to harass other gamers online by using derogatory words or making them uncomfortable. Make sure to report players who behave inappropriately online. Many games have tools to report toxic behaviours and foul language.
Original games over pirated ones
Pirated games do not welcome recent updates released by developers. It is wise to avoid pirated version. Moreover, pirated version comes with malware and puts your security at risk. If a malware is activated, it can cause malfunction in your PC.
Buying an original copy can avoid breaking the law & violating the creators’ intellectual property rights.
Play safely and privately by connecting to a VPN.
Your IP address and location are concealed when you use a virtual private network (VPN). Remember that certain games forbid the use of VPNs to prevent players from gaining access to location-locked content or release dates.
Check your settings
Open the privacy and security options on any new gaming system or game as soon as you get it. Set them up to suit your comfort level. Remember that many game developers choose the least secure default settings by design, so you should not assume they are.
For instance, your game might automatically share your activity and location information with the creator. Consider the types of data you feel comfortable providing.
Conclusion
In the ever-expanding realm of online gaming, security remains a top priority. You fortify your defences against the latent Security Issues in Online Gaming by employing strong password practices, multi-factor authentication, and vigilant updates.
As you embark on digital exploits, you can anticipate camaraderie and victory, which a protected gaming environment will enhance. Focus on gaming excitement while these safeguards protect you from potential dangers.