Online games can feel like a second home, but it’s easy to get lost in their excitement.  With all the fun comes a real risk: your personal information is constantly exposed to potential threats. Cybercriminals are just as eager to target gamers as they are to score their next win. Identity theft, account hacks -the dangers are very real.

No, don’t just use the same password everywhere

A lot of us don’t realise how easy it is for hackers to crack weak passwords, especially if you use the same one for multiple accounts. Something simple, like “123456” or your birthdate, won’t take long to be figured out. And if you think it should be obvious to not pick those, have a look at some statistics – because data says otherwise.

Using a password manager is one of the easiest ways to store all those complex passwords without forgetting them. It generates long, random passwords for every account, making it impossible for hackers to crack them.

It’s also a good idea to enable two-factor authentication (2FA) wherever possible. Even if someone gets hold of your password, this adds another layer of protection.

Make sure the device you’re playing on is secured

Keeping your devices and software up to date is essential for protecting yourself from threats. Developers frequently release updates that patch security flaws, so don’t ignore those notifications when they pop up, as tempting as it might sometimes be. It’s also a good idea to run antivirus software and set up a firewall to add extra layers of protection.

If you’re serious about online security, investing in a good VPN (Virtual Private Network) is a game-changer. A VPN encrypts your internet connection, making it nearly impossible for hackers to intercept your data. It also hides your IP address, so you’re a less likely target for a DDoS attack.

Don’t underestimate the value of your personal information

Online gaming thrives due to it being a social experience, but that doesn’t mean you should share every detail about yourself. Something as simple as sharing the town you live in can help a hacker build a profile of you.

To stay safe, it’s best to keep details like your full name, address, and financial information private. Check your game’s privacy settings to make sure your information is protected. Limit who can see your profile and consider changing your settings regularly to keep control of who has access to your data.

Listen to your instincts and know common scams

You’ve probably come across the odd offer in your gaming inbox – a special skin, free credits, or a chance to win big. Unfortunately, most of the time these are just scams designed to steal your account details. A lot of these come in the form of phishing emails or fake websites that look almost identical to the real thing.

Never click on links from unknown sources and be suspicious of offers that sound too good to be true – because they usually are. If someone’s promising you a free item or a huge win, it’s probably a scam. Always double-check the URL to make sure you’re on the official site and report any suspicious messages you get.

Stay vigilant and make cybersecurity a priority – your next victory shouldn’t be your account being hacked.

Carl Bulzacchelli