The virtual gaming world is large, so large it is said to be a universe where millions of people from every part of the world converge to compete against and with each other. While this makes gaming more fun, it also risks gamers’ exposure to cyber attacks from malicious gamers.
5 Important Tips for Online Gaming Security
If you are skeptical or untrusting about the safety of playing your favorite games, it can stop you from having fun. Here are 5 cybersecurity tips on how to protect yourself when playing online games.
1. Use Strong and Unique Password
When a gamer creates a (new) account, they are commonly told to use unique passwords which will not be easily detectable by external parties. This is because creating a strong and unique password is the first line of defense in online gaming security. In creating strong and unique passwords, consider the following:
- Avoid using common or easily guessable words such as your name or date of birth.
- Mix uppercase and lowercase letters.
- Include numbers and special characters.
- Use different passwords for different gaming accounts.
2. Enable Two-Factor Authentication (2FA)
Two-Factor Authentication adds an extra layer of online gaming security to your gaming accounts. When activated, 2FA works by requiring another form of identity verification before access is granted. This second form of verification could be a code sent to your phone or e-mail address, in addition to your password, making access to your online gaming account significantly more difficult for malicious people.
3. Keep Your Gaming Software Updated
Another cybersecurity tip on how to protect yourself when playing games online is to keep your gaming software updated. Not only does this protect you from heartache, it also makes your game run smoothly and without lags. Game developers tend to release software updates regularly to fix security patches. If updates wouldn't be an issue, you should enable auto-update.
4. Use a Virtual Private Network (VPN)
VPNs work by encrypting your internet connection, that is, hiding your identity and keeping you vague to cyber attackers by ensuring that any data transmitted between your device and the gaming server is protected properly.
Beyond security, VPNs can also help you bypass geographical restrictions (regional, national or continental) hence allowing access to games or content that might be unavailable in your location.
If VPNs is an option you are willing to try out, choose a reputable VPN service with a no-logs policy that ensures your data isn’t stored or sold to third parties. Also, Free VPNs often come with limitations such as slower connection speeds or risks like selling your data to advertisers, so it’s preferable to opt for a paid option.
5. Be Cautious With In-Game Purchases And Downloads
When making online purchases like skins and guns for your gaming account, you need to be cautious and ensure you're buying from the official game store or website. Avoid third-party sellers or unofficial websites as much as you can, and be on the lookout for unauthorized charges if transactions have already been made before now, as these can be breeding grounds for malware and scams.
Closing Note
Cybersecurity is always evolving. This means that there are always new threats emerging regularly and in response, new solutions too. Staying informed is one of the best cybersecurity tips on how to protect yourself when playing online games.