The iGaming industry has grown dramatically thanks to relentless technological advancements offering exceptional gaming experiences. According to Acumen Research and Consulting, the U.S. online gaming market was valued at $56 billion in 2021 and is expected to hit $132 billion in 2030 with a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 10.2%.
The massive growth has not gone unnoticed by evil characters who have found an opportunity to make some money fraudulently. Online gamers face many obstacles, from malware, phony game hacks, phishing scams, and identity theft. So if you are going to play online, play it safe.
Online gambling is also on the rise, with gamblers playing online casinos, lotteries, and sports betting. The harmful effects of online gambling include addiction and loss of money.
There are around 3.09 billion gamers worldwide, with the number of children gamers also increasing. In the U.S., 51.1 million kids play video games representing 21% of gamers. These figures provide a reason for parents to worry about the security of their kids while gaming.
Every online should understand the social and technological risks of online gaming and take necessary measures. The risks include:
- Malicious software
- Viruses and worms
- Insecure game servers
- Social Engineering Identity theft
- Protection schemes
- Cyber prostitution
- Virtual mugging
- Virtual sweatshop
Technological Risks
Online gaming may pose the following risks to your computer, mobile phone, tablet system, or systems of other gamers on shared connectivity.
Malicious Software
Hackers attach viruses to emails, instant messages, or game files. The gaming software you install may also contain malicious software that installs itself on your gadget without your knowledge. The hackers then use the malicious software for illicit transactions.
Compromised or Insecure Game Servers
If you connect your computer to a compromised game server or cloud, your computer will also be compromised. Malicious users may take control of your gadget remotely, steal crucial data, or install malicious programs like Trojan horses, spyware, or adware.
The game codes on game servers may be insecure, causing abnormal behavior on the gadget or introducing vulnerabilities.
Social Risks
Video games are no longer solitary activities, thanks to emails, chats, and instant messages enabling players to engage with game providers during the game. Unfortunately, fraudulent characters use social interaction platforms to exploit software vulnerabilities. As a result, they may access your computer, steal information and data, steal your identity, or inappropriately contact children.
Social Engineering
Malicious people trick you into installing software on your gaming gadget that they use to control your device, monitor your online activities, and steal personal information and data. They can also launch attacks on other machines within the network.
Identity Theft
Fraudulent persons gather your information from the profiles you create on gaming sites and then use the information to create accounts in your name. Such accounts can steal money from your bank or engage in illegal activities.
Phishing
Phishing websites offer free games, bonuses, or emails prompting gamers to log in to their accounts via a link directing to copycat gaming sites. This is designed to steal your login credentials or spread fake games containing malware.
Cyber Prostitution
Sexual predators use social interaction platforms to send gamers obscene images and videos or recruit them into online pornography. Unfortunately, children are at the highest risk of falling prey to these evil characters who may lure them into meeting physically and sexually harm them.
How to Make iGaming Safe
The gaming industry has a duty of care to keep players safe. Online gamers should learn and follow all iGaming security measures to protect themselves from the above threats. Developers and providers must offer safe games.
Safety measures taken by iGaming developers and publishers include:
Protecting Personal Information
Game publishers invest in data protection systems to safeguard players’ details. They should never disclose customers’ login details and financial information to third parties unless through a court order request. The systems should also be tamper-proof to prevent unauthorized access to client’s information and data.
Anti-discriminatory Rules
Game providers should have zero tolerance for discrimination, racism, bullying, harassment, or hate. The games offered should not advocate any form of hate or discrimination towards a particular group or make players feel threatened.
Every player must feel comfortable while playing online, so no bullying or harassment should occur while playing. Anybody who violates these rules should be banned from the platform. Every player deserves a safe, fair, and inclusive playing space, so users should respect and care for each other.
Fair Games
Games are a source of knowledge and help players to be patient, tolerant, and accepting of failures. A person who cannot accept failure should not play games since they involve winning or losing. Game providers should ensure they put in place mechanisms to prevent cheating. Online games like casinos that involve money should be fair to protect players from unfair losses.
Top online casinos offer fair games where players win handsome prizes without any underhand dealings. The Secure Socket Layer encryption safeguards players’ privacy ensuring their details are secure on the gaming website. Taking into consideration the BetMGM Casino for PA residents and visitors, you are always assured that you are in a safe place.
Free from Illegal Activities
Online games should include guidelines explaining what is allowed and not allowed while gaming. This ensures no player engages in activities that pose a risk to others. Online games should be free from any illegal or dangerous activity.
The gaming systems have checks and balances that monitor activities and take action in case of violation.
Responsible Gaming Content
Games released to the public should be rated appropriately to avoid offending the average consumer. Games with obscene content or advocating extremist ideologies should not be allowed, especially for kids and teens.
Adverts that pop during the game should also be adequately evaluated to demonstrate a sense of responsibility towards the general public.
Steps that an online gamer should take for a safe gaming experience
Only Play Games on the Website
It is advisable to play online games at the site and save the site for later browsing. This reduces the risks on your computer if you end up on a malicious page. Avoid playing older versions of the games and ensure the games are updated with the latest patches and fixes.
Use Strong Passwords
Creating strong passwords that cannot be easily guessed is very critical. This helps to keep fraudulent eyes at bay. Your password should include numbers, special characters, and a mix of small and capital letters.
Recognize the Risks of “Administrator Mode”
Some games require players to use administrator mode while playing. In such cases, only download games from reputable developers and trusted sites.
