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Video games have been a favorite nostalgia item for many of us (remember Pokemon collecting?). With an estimated 2.96 billion games worldwide in 2021, gaming has invaded our lives forever as the global number of gamers using PCs, consoles, tablets and smartphones is predicted to reach 3.32 billion by 2024. Add to that a market valuation of nearly $300 billion, and it stands to reason that the industry helps shape entertainment and culture based on player preferences. In other words, user data is behind all success.
Is it safe to share data access for any game we download or play online? The answer is a big “NO”. Behind all this entertainment, we often risk our data with games equipped to collect data and record our activities. This often leads to data leakage without our knowledge and consent. Fortunately, technological advances have also enabled progressive brands to update and improve security systems, helping to restore customer trust over time. However, in the online sphere, it is not an easy world. So, let’s take a closer look at user privacy.
Why do gaming brands need personal information?
Gaming companies need to develop their target audience across multiple touch points. This prompts them to search for their name, mailing address, date of birth, email address and payment information to create online accounts.
The information in these accounts is often used to connect with broader online social networking sites, facilitate in-game advertising, understand gaming preferences, and facilitate in-game interactions, even offering matchmaking services.
This data also helps store payment information for in-game purchases and to fund multiplayer.
Dangers hanging over gamers’ data
Online gaming forums are rife with complaints of missing—and likely stolen—game products, accounts or hostages held for ransom, and credit card bills that show unauthorized in-game spending.
Losing a virtual object means everything to a player who spends hundreds of real dollars and hours in-game to get something of value. In addition, hackers can easily exchange the stolen virtual object for cash.
Again, it can be used to access the victim’s email and other online accounts and sell it on dark markets.
Gamers often fall prey to such vicious circles, downloading cheaper versions of the same game and thereby downloading viruses and malware.
Opening phishing emails, manipulation by cyber bullies, cross-site scripting (XSS) through insecure login methods, and even using the same usernames and passwords across gaming platforms makes their credentials vulnerable to hackers.
Significant steps in protecting user data
There is indeed a silver lining to this, and it’s initiatives by various gaming brands to speed up the industry with better privacy measures. Brand-controlled databases now protect all user data stored on firewall-protected servers.
Password-protected firewalls have also greatly restricted access to sensitive data. In terms of gameplay, brands pay due attention to monitoring in-game transactions to detect potential fraud, especially in the case of tournaments.
Blockchain already enables developers to create immutable ledgers that protect user data through NFT transactions. Completing this perimeter of security are secure payment gateways armed with top-notch monitoring systems that capture every transaction and are overseen by the brand.
How to protect yourself from the dangers of online games
To ensure maximum security, it is vital to practice cyber hygiene. Here are some smart precautions to take:
> Use stronger passwords
> Set up multi-factor authentication
> Do not disclose personal information unnecessarily
> Avoid downloading from illegal sources
> Be aware of hidden fees and potential scams
> Update your software regularly
> Make sure your information is deleted when you dispose of the device
Privacy and security must be considered during the initial design of gaming products and services as the gaming industry continues to change and open up new ways to connect. This cannot be an afterthought.
Tech-savvy gamers, especially those involved in eSports, know the dangers of sharing their personal information. Therefore, online gaming organizations need to review their security systems to keep the game fun and users clicking “Play” without a second thought.
(The author is the AVP of Product at PlayerzPot, a trusted and secure gaming platform that combines the excitement and thrill of real-world gaming with the affordability and ease of online gaming.)
Disclaimer: The opinions, beliefs and views expressed by the various contributors and forum members on this website are personal.
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