Oct. 12, 2021 - Cyber Security Month is here, and one area rarely talked about is online gaming. Online gaming can help with socializing, managing moods, motor skills and can influence creativity.
However, there are risks that gamers need to understand to protect themselves on the internet. The global market for video games is massive, with 2.5 billion active video game players. This large user base incentivizes malicious actors to target video game publishers and players. Protect your gamer family and friends by understanding these 6 tips:
- Do not expose your identity. Never disclose personally identifiable information (PII) especially through gaming tags, handles, or nicknames.
- Understand how to avoid predators that use social engineering techniques, inform yourself on proper online conduct, including cyberbullying, and avoiding scams.
- Keep software, operating systems, and browsers up to date.
- Edit your privacy settings. Use parental, privacy, and safety settings in-game, app stores, and on devices.
- Choose where you get your games wisely, unsanctioned mods or direct download games can be laced with malware.
- Do your research, get involved, and, if inclined, play the game, too.
For more information contact CSUCI's Information Security Team at infosec@csuci.edu.