Be Alert with this type of risks associated with Online Gaming
Definitely, you will think and surprised that how online gaming is related to cybersecurity?
Let me tell you that more and more children and young people are gaming online and the number is going to increase day by day. Where ever there are a lot of users on the internet, cybercriminals find their way to victimize them. This can be in way of cheating, cyber-bullying, sharing inappropriate content, etc.
Gaming is another area that has been transformed with the advent of Information Technology. More and more children are joining the online game community. Easy access and a variety of platforms that can be used for playing online games have helped in increasing online gaming in India. Children can play online games on mobile phones, consoles, computers, portable gaming devices, and social networking sites.
The gaming consoles operate like a computer where you need to create your account, log in, put a headset, and use a webcam or other devices. You not only play games with crores of users online but also talked to them, share your views, become friends, join groups, teams, etc. There are crores of people playing online games at any given point in time. While online games can be fun they also bring associated risks.
It is a matter of concern that outdoor activities and physical games are missed out on by our computer and Smartphones loving children. It is advisable to include outdoor games in addition to online games that help you in your overall physical, mental, and social development.
Given the range of online games available and the ease of playing with crores of players online from across the globe, online gaming can be a fun way for you to connect with others, but it is indeed important for you to understand the associated risk and know how to handle certain situations. Enjoy the online gaming experience and have great fun but make sure that you played it safe!!!
Do you know what are the risks associated with online gaming?
- There are many aggressive players online who may bully you. Some players play simply to bully or harass others. They may use inappropriate language or cheat others. It is important for you to be careful.
- Many adults and cybercriminals also play online games and pretend to be a child. They may try to be a friend of yours by giving tips about games, sharing points with you, and trying to win your trust. They may use this opportunity to run a scam by getting personal information or motivating you for a one-to-one meeting.
- There are many free online gaming websites. Moreover, you may receive links over emails or text messages to download interesting online games. Some of the games ask for lots of personal information about the player before creating an account. This may compromise your personal information like your name, age, mobile number, etc. which can be misused. You may end up downloading viruses or malware along with free online games downloaded from unsecured sites which can infect your computer, smartphone, or other gaming devices.
- In many online games, you are asked to buy points or coins, which can be used to improve performance or give you an advantage in terms of time or resources. You are asked to share credit card details for the payment. Of course, you ask your parents to help you with the purchase. However, some infected online games can capture credit card details and misuse them.
Let’s discuss how you can protect yourself
- Don’t share your personal information like name, date of birth, address, and phone number with players while playing online games. You don’t know who the players are and what is their intention? You may end up sharing your information with scammers or cyberbullies.
- Never share your or your parent’s credit card or debit card detail with anyone when you are playing online games. Some cybercriminals befriend children by helping them with winning games or sharing points. They may win your trust and later ask for your help to buy coins or points etc. They may ask for a credit card or debit card details. Don’t share such detail with anyone.
- Never install games downloaded from free online gaming websites that are not reported. Never download games by clicking on the link received via mail, text message, or a popup. You may end up downloading viruses and malware that can compromise your computer and Smartphone security.
- Always install good antivirus software on your computer, smartphone, or other handheld devices. Regularly update the antivirus and other applications.
- Never share your password with anyone. You should use a complex password for your online gaming account and other online accounts. It is a good practice to change your password at regular intervals.
- Never use voice chat or a webcam while playing the online game. This may share your identity with other players and attract cyber Bully and other cyber criminals.
- Never meet in person with someone from your online gaming world. In real life, they may be very difficult. Cybercriminals may befriend you and try meeting you or getting your personal information. They may have wrong intentions.
- If you face any challenge in the online gaming world, immediately inform your parents or elder so that they can support and guide you.
Develop a habit of playing outdoor games. You will enjoy outdoor activities and can make really good friends. Limit your exposure to online games as much as possible.
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