Gaming used to be a pretty secure business. You bought a disk or deck of cards, and played it over and over until you got tired of it. On the surface, today’s gaming seems like an improvement. It’s more convenient, and MMOs (Massive Multiplayer Online Role Playing games) create a sense of community and fun. Unfortunately, that convenience and community comes with a number of technological and social risks. Be on the lookout for how online gaming can endanger you and your money!
Technological Risks
- Malicious software. In-game instant messaging is an easy way for cybercriminals to spread malware to your computer via viruses and worms. Fake or unknown game apps also pose a security risk.
- Compromised or insecure game servers. Any game that connects to a network comes with security risks. Once a server is compromised, the hacker could potentially access or even remotely control any computer that connects to it.
- Insecure game coding. Gaming software is not as secure as commercial software. It could introduce bugs or introduce vulnerabilities to your device.
Social Risks
- Identity theft. Scammers may be able to access the personal information (name, phone number, email, even financial info) you include in your gaming accounts, potentially using it to steal your identity. They may use instant messaging or even voice chat to trick you into giving away sensitive information.
- Extortion. Hackers use in-game consequences to blackmail weaker players into sending them real or virtual money.
- Imposter schemes. Criminals may pose as someone else in order to access your information. They might even befriend your child and try to convince them to meet up in person.
How to Protect Yourself
- Don’t click on any links provided to you by someone you don’t know, or provide a stranger with important personal or financial information.
- Verify the security and authenticity of any new apps or software you download. Research them and read reviews if you can!
- Use antivirus/antispyware programs and a firewall. Keep these programs and any application software up-to-date.
- Use strong, unique passwords.
- Don’t allow underage children to game unsupervised, or at least review the security settings of the game and device they’re using.
- Always play games on their official sites.
