Gaming is, no doubt, one of the most popular leisure activities in the world today. Reports from Newzoo show that there were about 2.69 billion gamers in 2020, a figure that is expected to hit about 3 billion by the end of 2023.
It is no secret that the internet has played a pivotal role in growing the gaming industry over the past few years.
Thanks to the rise of improved online gaming technology, like subscription-based streaming platforms, the industry has grown a wide community of loyal and dedicated gamers. Today, it is possible to play different genres of games online, from sports video games like NBA 2K to casino games like real money blackjack on your mobile device.
Playing a game online is for sure a fun thing to do, but on the flip side, there are a couple of things that can deter gamers from having a great time on the world wide web. Some of these include cyberbullying, gaming addictions, information breaches, and money scams.
The good news, however, is that you can protect yourself from these unfortunate situations, and this article highlights the many ways to go about it. So, without further ado, here are basic tips to help you stay safe while gaming online:
Staying safe online begins with choosing the right gaming platforms. Whether you’re purchasing an online game or playing for free, the first thing you want to ensure is that the game in question is from a trusted source.
Examples of trusted platforms are your mobile app stores and licensed gaming websites. No matter how exciting the game title is, don’t download from an untrusted source.
Most online game studios require you to create a user profile, so keep your real identity hidden as much as possible.
Choose a safe username that doesn’t include your full name, alma mater, birth date, home address, and mobile number. If you’re required to use a profile picture, ensure to use an avatar or any other acceptable image that doesn’t reveal your identity.
Also, remember to use a strong password to protect your account.
Gaming online allows you to meet new people from all over the world. While this is good, it is wise to stay discreet.
Don’t get carried away by all the excitement to the point where you share too much about yourself. Trusting strangers you don’t know with sensitive information can pose a threat to you and your family.
There are a couple of wolves in sheep’s clothing online, and you want to be sure that you don’t fall victim to their antics. Some hackers masked as gamers post shabby links on live gaming platforms with juicy offer branding. Clicking on these links might expose you to cyberattacks, granting these criminals access to your phone.
Also, don’t accept gifts or rewards that are too good to be true
Not all games are open to everyone, and playing a game that is not suitable for your age can expose you to danger.
Some games online come with R18 or R21 tags or warnings, which means they contain content not suitable for gamers below the age of 18. Some other games may come with PG13 tags, which signals the need for parental supervision for intending players 13 years or younger.
As much as some gamers hate to believe this, gaming addiction is real and can ruin your gaming experience. So, take a break when you start feeling bored or after you’ve spent some considerable time playing.
If you realize that you’re neglecting other important things you need to do in place of gaming or finding it difficult to stop playing, seek help from family, friends, and gaming addiction experts.
People play internet games for many reasons; to have fun, ease off stress, make money, et cetera. Regardless of your reason for gaming online, you must ensure to stay protected.
Make use of all the helpful tips provided in this article for a smooth and safe gaming experience.
You can unsubscribe at any time by clicking the link in the footer of our emails.