Data Privacy and Protection For Online Gaming

Online entertainment has evolved in the past decade. Gamers often spend many hours online. They interact with unfamiliar people, buy online content, and seek out game-related information. Staying on the cutting edge in this way can keep you in the loop — but it can also make you a target for cybercriminals.

Unfortunately, your online footprint can increase the chance of your personal information being exposed. In turn, leaked personal information can expose gamers to risks including:

• Identity theft;
• Malware;
• Ransomware;
• Phishing;
• Cyberbullying;
• Data mining;
• Online predators.

Cybercriminals and the Gaming Economy: The Risks of Online Gaming

Cybercriminals can victimize gamers through many different methods. Gamers must be aware of these to protect their privacy.

Camera and Microphone Access

If a hacker can gain remote access to your device, they may be able to operate the device’s camera and microphone. They can do this by tricking you into clicking on a link that embeds spyware on your device.

You can take action to prevent this from happening. Be wary of suspicious links and messages, use a cover for your camera, and unplug peripheral devices when they are not in use.

Location Sharing

If a hacker can gain access to your location tracking data, they can use it to stalk you or to more effectively scam you based on your interests. This can be done through spyware, spying apps, or even a review of your public check-ins.

Spyware on mobile devices can be difficult to detect. It is generally helpful to use a security app to identify it. You should also turn off location tracking software on your mobile devices and applications whenever possible.

Poorly Protected Servers

Online games are hosted on servers, and not all servers are created equal. In theory, anyone can set up a server with minimal equipment. If a server is compromised, consoles or gaming PCs connected to it can be compromised as well.

Consider what security measures are in place for servers that you frequent. Be careful with your data, regardless of the server’s reputation. There is always some risk that your device could become compromised when it is connected to a server.

Unsecure Wi-Fi

Hackers can intercept your information when you are using unsecured Wi-Fi. They may use methods such as ma