Since long, gamers have not been the primary focus of cybersecurity efforts. Instead, most often you hear of cyber attacks against businesses or identity theft due to phishing schemes affecting individuals - however hackers are now targeting gamers directly.
Cyberattacks against gamers have increased exponentially, as cybercriminals target gamers as potential exploitable digital vulnerabilities increase. Meanwhile, gaming industry expansion and user participation is driving this rise - leaving hackers more opportunities than ever to target gamers with attacks.
Cyberattacks against young gamers will increase by 57% between 2022-2023.
Risks increase significantly for young gamers who enjoy popular titles like Minecraft, Roblox and Fortnite on devices belonging to their parents - devices which contain valuable data that hackers could find interesting.
We will then explore the reasons for the rising threat landscape and discuss ways in which gamers can protect themselves from potential dangers.
Cybersecurity and the Gaming Boom Millions of people have found entertainment through gaming's exponential rise.
Unfortunately, criminals are also drawn in by its lucrative opportunities.
MSN reports on an increasing trend of cyberattacks against gaming platforms. Hackers use sophisticated methods to access user accounts and steal sensitive data or disrupt gaming sessions, possibly leading to theft and disruption or even the theft of user credentials and account compromise.
Theft of In-Game Items and Credentials
Cyberattackers' motivations often lie within the promise of earning valuable in-game goods such as rare skins or weapons; account credentials also hold value. Hackers exploit weak passwords, security loopholes and vulnerabilities in user accounts to gain entry and steal virtual goods for illicit gain.
Ransom Attacks on Gaming Accounts
Ransom attacks are becoming more prevalent in the gaming industry. Cybercriminals take control of an account and demand ransom. Hackers typically demand untraceable cryptocurrency as payment. Hackers use psychological techniques to manipulate gamers into paying up, as they want to maintain control of their profile as well as keep tabs on achievements and progress made during gameplay.
Hackers Are Now Targeting Gaming Platforms
Hackers have long targeted individuals; now, however, they are also targeting gaming platforms in an attempt to disrupt online services through DDoS attacks (Distributed Deny of Service), inducing server overload which becomes inaccessible for legitimate users and thus rendering online services unavailable for play.
These attacks frustrate players and can have significant repercussions for gaming companies; costs associated with mitigating such attacks should be taken into account alongside potential revenue losses.
Understanding Cybercriminals' Motivations
Education is vital to successfully combating the rising tide of cyber threats that afflict gaming. Uncovering their motivations behind such attacks is crucial - cybercriminals have created lucrative markets by exploiting virtual economies in games; their anonymity makes gamers attractive targets.
Cyberattacks have become more prevalent, prompting gamers to take proactive measures against potential cyber threats and keep an eye out for young gamers who may need protection. Parents should also remain alert.
Here are a few strategies on how to increase gaming security.
Strengthen Your Passwords
What's the easiest and most effective way to secure your gaming account? Implement strong, unique passwords - anything easy for others to guess should be avoided by mixing letters, numbers and special characters together - using random letters, numbers or special characters will add another level of protection and regular password updates will only further add extra layers of protection.
Utilize Multi-factor Authentication (MFA)
MFA is an invaluable security measure. Users who enable MFA verify their identity using an additional method, such as SMS. Enabling 2FA reduces the chance of an unauthorized entry even if hackers have stolen your password.
Staying Up-to-Date and Vigilant Keep informed and vigilant of cyber threats facing the gaming community.
Learn of potential risks. Additionally, stay aware of new hacking methods and security best practices. When downloading or clicking links be wary; use caution when engaging other gamers on gaming platforms.
Keep your software and antivirus programs updated Staying current with your OS, antivirus software and gaming platform updates is crucial in order to patch known vulnerabilities and stop them being exploited by potential attacks. Cybersecurity should always remain at the forefront, and staying informed helps do just that.
Consider Using a Virtual Private Network.
A VPN provides additional protection from DDoS threats as well as malicious activities on the web, providing privacy enhancement and increasing protection from potential attacks by cyber criminals.
Need Help with Cybersecurity at Home?
With gaming industry growth comes increased cybersecurity awareness. Your home contains many devices that need protection - we are here to assist.
Do not leave your business or personal data vulnerable. We provide cost-effective home security solutions; contact us now to arrange a meeting at (404) 932-5940 or email us info@nuwaveitc.com
