Securing Your Online Gaming Experience: Safety Tips for Gamers

Online gaming has emerged as a widely embraced source of entertainment enjoyed by individuals of all age groups. What makes it particularly fascinating is the diverse array of game genres that cater to a wide spectrum of audiences. Gamers have the opportunity to connect with competitors from across the globe, adding to the excitement of each round and the anticipation of the next. Not surprisingly, the gaming community is projected to exceed 1.3 billion in the next two years. Nonetheless, a darker undercurrent looms in the virtual corridors—security vulnerabilities. Here are some guidelines to ensure your safety on online gaming platforms.

1. Enable Two-Factor Authentication: Two-factor authentication is an additional layer of security that has become ubiquitous on online social platforms, including virtual games. Think of it as a secondary defense line in case someone gains access to your initial password. Without the secondary authentication code, unauthorized access to your account is impossible. If you’ve set up your online game using a Gmail account and frequently play on your smartphone, the authentication code will be sent to your registered email or smartphone. In the event of a potential security breach, a notification will be sent to your phone to confirm any attempts to access the game from another device. If it’s not you, it could signal a hacking attempt, and the two-factor authentication will thwart the intrusion and allow you to reset your password.
2. Avoid Clicking on Suspicious Links or Emails: Online games, such as bridge, often require your regular email account for setup or gameplay as an added security measure. While your email acts as an extra layer of identity verification, it can become a weak link if not handled carefully. Hackers may send phishing emails or malware disguised as legitimate communication from an online gaming source. Some might entice you to click on suspicious links to verify your details. Doing so would grant them unrestricted access to your online account and PC system. Therefore, exercise caution and refrain from clicking on any links during gameplay without conducting due diligence.
3. Strengthen Passwords: Gaming passwords serve the dual purpose of identifying and safeguarding your account from unauthorized access. The key to a robust password lies in its complexity, making it impervious to hacking attempts. IT security experts recommend using alphanumeric passwords interspersed with symbols. Don’t forget to incorporate both lower and upper case characters to add an additional layer of security. Avoid using easily guessable elements like your name or birthdate, as these are weak and predictable. It’s also crucial not to use the same password for all your online games, as it would make your system more vulnerable to hacking. To keep track of your login information and minimize the risk of forgetting your combinations, consider using a reliable password manager.
4. Safeguard Personal Information During Games: The social nature of online games allows real-time interaction with other players and competitors. It’s imperative to exercise caution when sharing personal information like your full name, phone number, or address with individuals you encounter on these platforms. Revealing sensitive data can expose you to various security and safety risks. As the digital landscape expands, malicious individuals can exploit even the slightest information slip to track you down in the real world. Additionally, exercise vigilance in safeguarding your financial information on discussion forums. Some players might feign difficulties with specific online payment platforms to extract crucial financial details. Steer clear of such situations, as cybercriminals can exploit personal information in numerous ways.
5. Be Respectful and Report Abuse: Bullying is an unfortunate presence in various aspects of life, and online gaming platforms are not immune. Cyberbullying on these platforms is prevalent, with a Statista survey indicating an 86% incidence in the past year. Gamers have reported instances of harassment and offensive language, reflecting an increase from 83% in 2020. While you can’t prevent others from being hurtful and offensive, you can report instances of abuse. Many gaming platforms have reporting systems to facilitate this process. Furthermore, avoid becoming a perpetrator of bullying by treating your competitors and fellow gamers with respect. Regardless of provocation, refraining from offensive behavior is essential. A respectful and inclusive gaming environment contributes to an enhanced online gaming experience for all.