We are all familiar with stories about computers and smartphones being hacked. Nowadays if a device is connected to the internet, then cybercriminals will eventually attack it. But did you know that online gaming has now become a gateway for people to misuse, and steal personal information as well?
Here are 8 ways that cybercriminals target people through online games.
1. “Weak” passwords
We use simple passwords because they are convenient and easy to remember. Simple passwords as weak because it is easy to guess, and therefore enabling little protection against hackers. To help you keep your accounts secure, it’s best to create a strong and complex password. You can use a password generator to help you. If you’re having difficulties remembering the new one, consider enlisting the help of a secure password manager.
2. Data Breaches
Instead of attacking your device, cybercriminals will frequently go after the game’s publisher.They will steal anything they can find once they have gained access to the publisher’s systems, including game source code and personal information stored in your online account. Change your password on a frequent basis to help limit any damage – even if there hasn’t been a reported breach.
3. Brute force attacks
Hackers will attempt to break into your account using automated scripts and credentials taken from other sources. People can rapidly and easily get access since they generally use the same passwords for many websites. Never reuse passwords; instead, use a password manager to create and assign a unique, secure password to each website and service you use.
4. Cross-site scripting
Some older websites process your login data in an insecure manner. Cybercriminals can intercept and steal those details using a technique known as ‘cross site scripting’ (XSS). Though you can’t do much to stop XSS from occurring, you can change your password on a regular basis. This will reduce the cybercriminal’s window of opportunity.
5. DDoS attacks
Rather than stealing your personal information, distributed denial of service (DDoS) attacks are commonly used to take a games service offline. They are, nevertheless, a big nuisance. Cybercriminals will try to overload gaming servers, causing the service to crash and go offline. The cost of downtime and recovery from a DDoS attack might cost the gaming company hundreds of thousands of dollars.
6. Malware downloads
To trick you into installing malware, cybercriminals will disguise it as a game-related download. Once malware is installed onto your computer, it can be used to steal personal information or take control of your accounts. Official sources should always be used to download games and expansion packs. Otherwise, you’re putting yourself at risk of infecting your own computer.
7. Phishing emails
Phishing emails has always been a preferred method for Cybercriminals. It’s an attack that lures individuals into unknowingly install Malware. Always double-check emails requesting you to download additional content, as they may not originate from the Gaming company at all.
8. Cyberbullying
The ability to communicate with other players is a vital component of the online gaming experience, but not everyone is playing for entertainment. Gamers are often subject to abuse, which can escalate into bullying over time. Cyberbully victims are not only humiliated, but they may also be forced to share critical personal information.
As you can see, Cybercriminals are attempting to steal your personal information through any opportunity. However, if you know how to spot signs of something malicious, then you will be able to keep your data, and in turn yourself digitally safe. There are plenty of services out there that help people become aware of the threats. Services like Siccura Cybershield and Siccura Cybersafe are programmes that people can join to keep their knowledge updated anytime.