Over the past twenty years, the gaming industry has evolved from mere entertainment to a lucrative business with billions of dollars in turnover. And where there is money, there are scammers. What threats can fans of online games face and how can they protect themselves?
Keyloggers
A keylogger is software that records user actions (keystrokes, mouse movements, etc.). To install a keylogger, scammers gain the trust of their victim. Also, a message offering to install the program may come from an acquaintance whose account has been hacked.
Attackers persistently ask to download “useful software” or lure users to a phishing site.
What to do?
Do not blindly trust requests to click on an unfamiliar link or install software, even if the message came from a friend.
Phishing
Phishing are fake sites whose URLs look very similar to real sites. The user may not realize that he or she has clicked on a phishing link and entered his or her contact or payment information. In addition, when visiting such sites, malware can be injected into the user’s computer.
This type of fraud is especially popular among gamers. Fraudsters can steal access to your online game account and promise to return it for a monetary reward.
What to do.
Get out of the habit of clicking links in your inbox. If you need to open a link, enter it manually in your browser window.
Infected games
If you download unlicensed or “broken” games, you run the risk of coming across a link that will install not only the game but also viruses on your computer.
In the situation with games, the risk is the same as opening attachments in email or on removable media. Anything that gets into your computer may not be safe.
What to do.
Use quality antivirus software that is regularly updated.
Malware
Among the variety of malware that gamers may encounter, Trojan programs should also be highlighted. Such software has the properties of a keylogger or rootkit, which will give it the ability to read the player’s personal data and leak the collected information to a remote computer.
What to do?
If you like to play online, don’t skimp on this, purchase licensed software.
Cheaters and fraudsters
This type of scam is not so much about software as it is about human ingenuity. There are millions of ways to cheat, and online gaming is no exception. In particular, cheaters may use modified client applications or bots that give them an advantage over other players. Contract battles and even online gangs robbing other players are also found in the vastness of online games.
What to do?
If you are offered something very attractive and almost free of charge, most likely you are being cheated. Be vigilant and do not trust generous strangers.