Online gaming is an increasingly popular pastime for adults in the UK, and consistent advancement in technology means the available games and how we play them are more enjoyable than ever. Cyberattack is an unavoidable danger that threatens to spoil the fun, but with the right protections in place you should stay safe when playing.
- Avoid sharing personal details
In the wrong hands, your personal information can be used against you. Cybercriminals can hack into private online accounts, apply for loans in your name and commit full-blown financial fraud. Even something as innocuous as your middle name or where you grew up can aid successful impersonation.
Never share any personal details with strangers you’re gaming with. Use a fake name if necessary and avoid answering inappropriate questions. If you have to input your address and financial information to play, ensure the site is secure. Check for evidence of encryption such as a Secure Sockets Layer, signified by the ‘s’ in ‘https’ at the beginning of the URL.
- Secure your gaming accounts
Help ensure any information stored online is kept concealed from prying eyes by taking steps to secure your gaming accounts. Simple security measures can make it much more difficult for hackers to gain access.
Firstly and most simply, protect accounts with passwords. These should be at least 12 characters, a combination of letters, numbers and symbols and unique. You can store your passwords in a secure password manager for easy access.
Password protection can be enhanced by two-factor authentication. This requires you to input a time-sensitive code sent to your email address or smartphone when signing in. Hackers would also need access to your email or phone to get into your accounts, so you’re protected even if they crack your passwords.
- Be cautious with in-game chats
Whether you’re chatting between rounds of an arcade favourite like a spin game or discussing team tactics in a multiplayer adventure, be cautious with in-game chats. These platforms provide a place for players to connect, elevating the online gaming experience, but not everyone you speak to will be trustworthy.
Any toxic behaviour such as bullying should be reported immediately once you’ve taken steps to mute or block the player. You should also flag any suspicious questions that could be linked to cybercrime. Consider using text rather than voice to communicate so you’re more aware of what you’re saying and, if in doubt, contact friends separately rather than using the platform.
- Keep software and games updated
Especially if you’re in the middle of a game or hurrying to join friends already playing, software updates are easily ignored. However, these could include fixes to flagged security vulnerabilities and are therefore a priority for your safety. Hackers are getting smarter every day, so using outdated versions of your favourite games risks providing easy access to your details.
Before you download anything, always check via the platform that it’s a legitimate update. Beware phishing scams such as emails or text messages demanding instant upgrades, often for a fee.
David Prior
David Prior is the editor of Today News, responsible for the overall editorial strategy. He is an NCTJ-qualified journalist with over 20 years’ experience, and is also editor of the award-winning hyperlocal news title Altrincham Today. His LinkedIn profile is here.
