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Gaming has become extremely popular in recent years, with millions of players spending their free time playing video games and casino games online. While online gaming is a fun, relaxing way to spend time, it can also make players vulnerable to online threats, bad actors, scams, and hackers if the correct safety precautions are not taken.
In this article, we'll cover the top eight security tips that can help keep online gamers safe.
1. Choose Reputable Sites, Services, and Platforms
First and foremost, online gamers should always choose reputable platforms, services, and sites. For video gamers, this may mean doing a little bit of research before downloading a new game or signing up for a new gaming subscription service. Ensure that the game you're downloading is the official version of the game and never download anything from an unofficial site.
For bettors who enjoy wagering online, this means finding licensed and registered casino sites online. Some regions allow online betting, so punters can find domestic sites in their area. Other regions do not yet allow online wagering, so bettors often turn to licensed international platforms in order to place their wagers. For example, in the USA, the state of New Jersey has legalized online gambling, however, in Maine, it remains a legal gray area. This means that international offshore sites that are registered and licensed are often the best bet for players from Maine and other states or regions that don't yet allow online betting. Author and gambling expert Aneeca Younas recommends ranking sites based on game variety, promotions, rewards, payment methods, and customer support before making a selection to ensure the best, and safest, experience.
Whether playing video games or casino games online, choosing a reputable site or platform is vital and the cornerstone of a safe online gaming experience for all players.
2. Only Use Strong Passwords
Using strong passwords for any activity online is crucial. When gaming online, players who use strong passwords are able to protect themselves from unwanted attacks and unauthorized access. Gone are the days when simple passwords like "password" or "123456" will suffice. Weak passwords will not adequately protect players against cyber threats when gaming online. To create a strong password, use a complex mix of symbols, letters, and numbers. Additionally, combine upper and lowercase letters. Try not to use your name, nickname, pet names, or any words that can be easily guessed, like the name of the street that you live on or your favorite color or food.
Additionally, never reuse passwords across multiple gaming accounts. Doing this can lead to a great amount of risk and loss because if one of your accounts gets hacked, then suddenly all of your accounts that use the same password as your compromised account are under threat.
Aim to use complex, random passwords whenever possible. If you have trouble remembering various passwords, consider using a password manager to help.
3. Bolster Security with Two-Factor Authentication (2FA)
Online gamers who use strong passwords often implement Two-Factor Authentication (2FA), which makes their online video and casino gaming accounts even more secure. 2FA works by asking users to provide a secondary form of verification, like a code sent to a mobile device or email address. By doing this, 2FA is able to add an additional layer of security to gaming accounts beyond the protection that a strong password can offer.
Many video gaming platforms and subscription service sites will offer the option to use 2FA. Additionally, most casino betting sites offer 2FA in order to keep players safe and their information secure. For online gamers who want to ensure the best and safest experience while playing online, using 2FA is a no-brainer and should be implemented whenever possible.
4. Stay Up-to-Date with Software Updates
Software developers are constantly releasing updates and patches that address vulnerabilities and enhance user protection. Online video and casino gamers should make it a habit to constantly check for software updates and keep all gaming devices like PCs, consoles, and mobile devices up to date.
Up-to-date devices and software are harder to hack by bad actors. By always updating software, gamers can proactively take steps to protect themselves, and their gaming gear, from malicious attacks online.
5. Choose Secure Payment Methods
When choosing a way to pay for games, subscription services, or funding casino accounts, gamers should consider the safest way to pay. Many video gaming platforms and sites will accept plastic cards, bank transfers, e-wallet payments, and even cryptocurrencies to fund playtime. Players should consider what the most convenient and secure way to pay is, and always check that the site uses encryption technology before inputting any financial details.
Online casinos accept many of the same payment methods, with cryptocurrencies becoming a popular option for many players. Crypto allows players to wager at online casinos using pseudonyms, so it adds an extra layer of security and privacy for players by hiding players' real names and personal details. Beyond that, it's also usually faster to transfer and costs less per transaction. For players who take their privacy and security seriously, there are even anonymous casinos that accept crypto as a payment method. These sites don't ask for any personal information from players, keeping gamers' identities and financial information safe and secure.
6. Limit the Sharing of Personal Information
With the plethora of gaming communities and forums available for video and casino players to engage with, it can be tempting to share personal details with other players online. However, in order to stay safe online, players should exercise caution when sharing sensitive details, like name, address, or date of birth, with anyone online.
To minimize risk, players should always try to avoid sharing personal information online. Sharing too much personal information with others online can lead to identity theft, targeted attacks, or unauthorized access.
Instead, keep online forum chats casual and non-personal. Engaging with your online gaming community is an important part of the gaming experience, and should be filled with talk about games, tactics, and tips, but never personal details.
7. Secure Your Wi-Fi Network
Whether you're playing video games or wagering at online casinos, all players need to connect to the internet. One way to safeguard your gaming experience is to enhance the security of your wifi connection. Consider using encryption technology like WPA2 which can keep out potential intruders and defend against eavesdropping or man-in-the-middle attacks.
Always play using your own, secure wifi connection and never game using public wifi networks. Public wifi networks are known to have security vulnerabilities and can increase a player's chances of being targeted for cybercrime.
8. Use Antivirus and Antimalware Solutions
Online gamers can never be too safe. Using antivirus and antimalware software can help protect your personal information and your gaming device. Antivirus and antimalware software typically work by scanning your computer or device to find any bad actors. If found, the software will work to remove the threat as quickly as possible.
Gamers who use antivirus and antimalware software on a regular basis are able to keep their devices safe and protect themselves from cyber threats.