Online Gaming Safety: How to Avoid Hackers and Protect Your Gaming Accounts
In today’s running world, we have everything online! The jobs are online, the bills are online, the school is online, and it has become normal that the games are online too. Online games are part of reality and have been so for a while now, but online also mean exposure to danger, just as in real life. Though online security may seem a joke to many, it is essential that we keep our data just as secure both online and offline. Just as you cover the pin number of your credit card or keep your social security number hidden from others, there are a couple of data that you should keep to yourself online.
Playing online games is super fun, but sometimes bad people called hackers might try to steal your account or personal information. Don’t worry, though! Here are some easy tips to help you keep your games safe and enjoy playing without any worries.
Create a strong secret password
When you make an account for a game, you need a secret and strong password. Make sure your password is hard to guess by using a mix of big and small letters, numbers, and symbols. Don’t use your name, birthday, or easy words, and use different passwords for each account.
Double-check your account
Some games let you double-check your account with something called two-factor authentication (2FA). This means you’ll need another way, like a text message or email, to prove it’s really you. It helps keep your account safe even if someone finds out your password.
Don’t fall for tricks
Sometimes hackers pretend to be game companies and send fake messages to trick you. Be careful and watch out for weird messages with mistakes or strange links. If you’re not sure if a message is real, ask an adult to help you.
Update your games and computer
Make sure your games, computer, and antivirus programs are always up-to-date. This means you have the newest and safest versions, which makes it harder for hackers to cause trouble.
Use a secret tunnel for the internet
A virtual private network (VPN) is like a secret tunnel for your internet connection. It helps hide your information and makes it harder for hackers to find you. Ask an adult to help you set up a VPN for extra safety.
Be careful on public
Wi-Fi Public Wi-Fi, like at a café or library, can be risky because hackers might be watching. If you need to use public Wi-Fi, make sure you have a VPN to protect your information, and don’t log in to important accounts.
Don’t share too much about yourself
Be careful not to share too much personal information, like your full name or address, when you’re playing games or talking to friends online. This helps keep your information safe from hackers.
Keep an eye on your accounts
Check your game accounts often to make sure nothing strange is happening, like things you didn’t buy or changes you didn’t make. If you see anything weird, tell an adult and change your password right away.
Protect your email
Your email is important because it helps you reset your passwords if you forget them. Make sure you have a strong, unique password for your email, and use double-checking (2FA) if you can.
Learn about gaming tricks
It’s good to know about common tricks that hackers use so you can avoid them. If something sounds too good to be true, like free game money or items, it might be a trick. Always be careful and ask an adult if you’re unsure.
By following these simple tips, you can keep your online games safe and have a great time playing with your friends!