Online gaming is currently in its golden age with more users playing online games than ever in history. The abundance of games and their diversity make it possible for people to find at least one game that they like and play it constantly. However, with the growth of this industry, there is also a big concern raised regarding security. One thing about online gaming is that there is a big number of minors who are part of this community and hence, the necessity to take as many security measures as possible exists.
However, security measures are not advised only to players who are underage, but rather the entire online gaming community. In this industry, unfortunately there are constant threats of phishing, malware and hacking and that is the main reason why it is a must to look out for security measures when playing games online.
In this article, we will guide you through the most important security measures and practices you can take care of when playing games online.
Strong Authentication Methods
One of the crucial elements when it comes to security online is to ensure that your account uses strong authentication methods. Here are the two main ones:
1. Two-Factor Authentication (2FA)
Two-factor authentication is probably a method you have already heard by now as most platforms require you to add it to your account. Although it might seem simple at first sight, 2FA is one of the most successful ways on how you can reduce the risk of unauthorized access to your account, even in cases when your password might be compromised.
2. Unique and Strong Passwords
Some passwords are found purely because they are too simple and easy to guess. For example, if your password is your name + 123, the probability of your password to be leaked is very high. So, the advice here is to use a unique password that is made out of letters, symbols and numbers when creating your account.
Secure Platforms and Sources
The next important security measure when it comes to online gaming is to be aware of the websites you are visiting or using. Thus, before using a website make sure that it is a well-known and reputable one that operates on some sort of regulations.
Usually, when visiting gaming websites you can check a few basic things, such as the domain, the license (if provided), the reviews on other platforms and so forth. Additionally, you should be careful when using any form of payment on those websites, especially when entering your card data. For example, when using Apple Pay to make purchases make sure to use the latest updated versions of Apple Pay innovations which include 2FA or further security measures which make it difficult for your data to be compromised.
Network Security
When it comes to network security, two of the main security measures you can take include:
1. Using a VPN
VPN or a Virtual Private Network is a way of encrypting your internet connection so that people who might try to enter it, cannot access it. This is a great tip for when playing games through public networks, as they are more prone to cyberattacks.
2. Securing your WiFi
On the other hand, if you are playing games using your own WiFi connection, then you should be securing it both with WPA3 encryption and by assigning a strong password that is not guessable.
Software and System Security
Software and system security is definitely a must, not just when playing online games, but also whenever you engage in any activity online. It is crucial that you install antivirus software to your devices, so that it can detect and remove any malware that comes your way.
Antivirus software can also be installed on your smartphone. With the rise of cyber-attacks on smartphones with hackers being able to hack your phone without touching it, it is smart to consider installing antivirus software especially if you play games on your smartphones. Some antivirus software also offer gaming modes that can secure your activity while you are playing.
In addition to that, it is important that you keep your system updated to the latest update because oftentimes developers release additions to new system updates that further protect against those cybersecurity threats.
Protect Personal Information
Whether in online gaming sites or elsewhere on the internet, you are advised to protect your personal information as much as possible. Avoid using your real info when creating accounts on those online gaming sites and don’t share it with people in the communities unless you have known them for some time.
Additionally, it is recommended that you create another email to use for creating accounts on gaming sites. This way, even if that email is compromised, they won’t have access to more confidential information that could be found in an email.