How to Stay Cybersafe While Gaming
There are always risks involved in connecting with people. Occupying online space can quickly change from fun to unsafe. The more time you spend on the internet, then the more likely you’ll become vulnerable to attacks.
When it comes to gaming, it’s more than just a deep need to escape. It’s an ever-growing and ever-expanding lifestyle. There are tons of communities out there that come together from different parts of the globe to talk about their shared love for overcoming goals, leveling up, taking control, and winning in the virtual world.
But more than the joy of winning something, it’s also about losing and being able to try again when you do. The headspace of gamers then is entirely different from what it is now. When you play, how do you know that your fellow player is your friend or is only pretending to be one? What makes you think that your personal information is safe?
There are a couple of safety parameters you can set up to protect yourself. Here’s a quick list for you. It enumerates helpful pointers on some of the things that you can do to make sure you’re safe while gaming.
Always Use Strong Passwords
Multiplayer games are interactive worlds that allow players to meet new people and or join their friends.
To keep yourself protected, no matter what game you’re on, always use a strong password when logging in. Whether or not you’re familiar with the gaming environment or it’s your first time to try it out, always assign a complicated password.
It should be eight or more characters, a combination of lowercase and uppercase letters with special characters in between. Those who have the intention of hacking your account will not have it easy.
Also, avoid using the same password for different websites. This will make you even more vulnerable to hacks. Your user names shouldn’t have any personal information about you that will make you an easy target when hackers try to do a search on you on Google.
Beware of Scammers
When you buy your gaming rig, make sure to get the best and most comprehensive antivirus software. That’s the most basic form of protection you can have. However, that’s not enough. There are loads of frauds in the gaming world, and that is unsurprising, considering how effortless it is to hide identities online.
When you receive invites from people you don’t know, careful not to download whatever is being offered. Try not to download an app that is not from Google Play or Apple App Store as it may be a possible threat in the guise of a friendly suggestion.
Scammers are a necessary evil in the gaming industry. These are people who are adamant in their attempt to trick unsuspecting gamers. You must see through what the app is really about and verify its authenticity. Make sure to have all apps scanned for malware before downloading them.
Same goes for those people who solicit money online. The rule is that, if you do not know the person, decline the request. That way, you won’t get caught up in any kind of trouble that you never intended to be part of.
Don’t Give In to Cyberbullying
Bullying has been the main topic of discussion for a lot of concerned local communities these days, so much so that it’s getting hard not to miss it.
It can start as a simple text, laced with threats or blackmail. It’s the same as bullying in person, only that the tools of cyberbullying are much more sophisticated. It can escalate very quickly from mild to severe without any warning, depending on how much information your bully has on you.
When you receive threats like these, you need to take them seriously and report to the nearest police station. If you find yourself in a situation where you’re unsure of your safety, notify someone immediately. At the end of the day, gaming is fun and all, but it’s your safety that matters more.
