Online gaming is booming around the world, with many using online gaming servers to play, and more and more game developers today include in-game purchases for their players. It may involve buying skins, gameplay, or buying time to speed up the gaming process. Despite this being a convenient and fun process, there are possible threats to one’s security such as fraud, hacking and even data breaches.
Why Taking Security Measures Are Important For Gamers
It’s common for players to rely on in-game purchases, which often requires them to divulge sensitive information such as credit card details and personal identification. These transactions, in the absence of appropriate security considerations, can be susceptible to attacks which can lead to identity theft or illegal bills being charged.
Considering how the landscape of gaming is changing with more entertainment forms, such as virtual or augmented reality being adopted by more gamers, it is no secret that criminals are increasingly targeting gamers which means security is paramount in transactions.
Common Risks Associated with Online Payments Required for Games
These are a few common dangers gamers see while applying for in-game offers:
Phishing Tricks
Phishing is one of the most common types of hacking tricks and can include fake links or messages aimed to siphon your account or payment information including cards.
Data Breaches
Unfortunately, data breaches occur more frequently than you might think and may include sensitive information like your name, email or address. If hacking occurs on your gaming server, your financial details might also be in danger.
Malware
Malware basically kills programs that are designed to record your conversations directly or capture payment information from you.
Unauthorised Charges
In the event that someone gains access to your account, they might carry out purchase transactions on your behalf without your permission. It is important to be vigilant of all transactions and ensure your bank is notified ASAP if you see any unauthorised charges.
8 Ways to Safely Make In-Game Purchases
For these reasons above, we would like to share the 8 best security measures to undertake in order to be able to make in-game purchases safely.
For Making Transactions With a High Fraud Risk, Always Use Credit Cards that Have Fraud Protection
Credit cards for in-game purchases are considered the most effective due to the ease with which many people get to use them and since they provide anti-fraud features. If you notice some transactions on your account that you didn’t make, you can inform your bank and they will look into it. Most of the time it is also possible on credit cards to refute the charge of a purchase that was not authorised.
Use Digital Wallets (PayPal, Apple Pay, Google Pay)
Digital wallets such as PayPal, Apple Pay and Google Pay are also very effective in facilitating transactions as they encrypt their customer’s payment details. Instead of giving your card number directly to the game platform, these services keep your card hidden and function on your behalf, thereby increasing safety.
The majority of the time, digital wallets are used for payments and keeping them as a record of every single payment made. Therefore making it easy to detect any unauthorised payments made.
Do Not Keep Payment Information on Gaming Accounts
Game accounts nowadays enable users to store convenience features such as payment options, however, this may be dangerous. For example, a hacker breaks into your account and steals your account information to make purchases.
Instead, it is advisable to avoid saving your payment details on the platform where you shop.
Use Two-Factor Authentication (2FA)
Two-factor authentication (2FA) is an additional security feature that is designed to strengthen the security of the privacy of the users by allowing two forms of identification for a particular account. Even if a thief manages to obtain your password, for example, they will not be able to access your account because they will need an authentication factor, which is usually texted to a cell phone or provided by an authentication application.
This makes it much more difficult for a hacker to access your account and perform purchases without authorisation.
Purchase Gift Cards Instead of Making Credit Card In-Game Purchases
Gift cards help prevent the counterproductive practice of requiring users to use either credit cards or their bank account details to make in-game purchases. Various gaming sites like Xbox, PlayStation, and Steam allow purchasing gift cards from verified sellers. By using these cards, you can purchase items without the need to expose one’s credit card details making it safer and easier.
Observe the Activity on Your Payments and Bank Accounts Quite Regularly
Monitoring your accounts by regularly analysing your bank statements and/or payment accounts is constructive as you will be able to spot questionable transactions quickly. If you see any unauthorised charge for which you suspect any fraudulent activity, inform your bank or the payment processor to block such a transaction.
Only Use Authorised Game Resources or Channels For Purchases
The most apparent mistake is making purchases of any in-game content from unrecognised and dubious websites. Even if these websites promise high discounts on less common items, no website is completely free from safety concerns.
Use a VPN When Playing On An Open Network
When gaming over a public Wi-Fi network or a shared one, there is a risk that some hackers may be able to gain access to your connection and try to learn what you are doing online. A secure connection is achieved through the use of a Virtual Private Network (VPN) that prevents any unauthorised people from accessing crucial information as it is encrypted.
