Social gaming is taking over the world of online gaming. Not only limited to a particular group or generation, the phenomenon is impacting the young and old.
With a focus on mobile gaming and emerging AR technologies, it’s the social aspect that has gamers glued to their phones.
Coherent Marketing Insights claims the social gaming market will be worth $36.22 billion by the end of this year. The sector is expected to reach $106.19 billion in 2032.
As with all online games, safety is paramount, and game developers are taking it seriously. Offline games simply do not carry the same amount of risk.
Roblox recently launched new safety features for under-13 gamers. According to Kidscreen, the studio limits the games kids can play and how they communicate with each other.
By the same token, it’s not only kids that should practice safety first. Adults are just at risk. Below, we’ll explain safety tips every social gamer should know.
#1. Only Download Games from Verified Sources
No matter how cautious you are, malware can easily spread among gamers. That “Click Here!” button in flashing lights can be infected software masked as a free game or update.
Only download games from trusted and verified sources, and avoid pirated or “cracked” games.
It may be tempting to download a cheat code as a shortcut to get to the finish line. However, it can come with some unwanted gifts like viruses or spyware.
#2. Never Play With Real Cash
Free social casino games are popular among individuals who like playing games such as poker and slot machines in a virtual environment.
Unlike physical casinos, these sweepstakes platforms offer players virtual currency like Rebet coins, free gold coins, and free slots.
There’s no chance of losing your hard-earned cash or being swindled out of your winnings.
It’s basically about having fun and challenging your friends to win, says ReBet. And that’s where social connections happen online.
#3. Don’t Share Personal Information
Even expert gamers sometimes make the mistake of using personal information as their username when registering for a game.
The second you type in your info, there’s a chance of it being compromised. Mining personal information like credit card details is a small fry for hackers. They can do it with their eyes closed.
#4. Check Privacy Settings
The social element of online gaming puts you more at risk. Tech Safety Canada says privacy settings can influence who sees when you are online and what games you are playing.
To change your privacy settings on social gaming platforms, locate the online privacy or safety options and customize your preferences.
#5. Read Game Ratings
Before visiting a restaurant, what’s the first thing you do? Read the reviews, right? The same goes for ratings on new gaming titles.
The Entertainment Software Rating Board (ESRB) ratings show age restrictions while PEGI rating safety certification provides advice on what the game may contain, i.e. bad language, discrimination, drugs, and sex.
#6. Use Strong Passwords
It can be frustrating thinking up passwords for just about anything. But, easy passwords like your favorite ice cream or your birthday isn’t going to cut it.
Using the same password for multiple accounts is a big no-no. A password manager can safely store your passwords. Or utilize an online password generator.
#7. Know Who You Are Playing With
Gaming platforms like Discord are big on engaging on community-style forums.
If you’re new to the social gaming sphere, consider in-game features. Friend lists track the activity of your online friends. Party systems let you group with other players and coordinate your gameplay.
#8. Avoid Opening Suspicious Links
Great, you’ve made a new friend in your virtual world. The truth is not everyone has good intentions.
The biggest red flag is encountering users who act strangely and insist on sending messages containing suspicious links. Don’t open the link; delete it and block the person immediately.
Safety First
It’s sad that even in virtual reality, you have to keep your wits about you and practice safety.
As the social gaming sector evolves, so too will cunning hackers and scammers. Always stay one step ahead by following the above tips.
Download or purchase games from trusted sources. Avoid playing with real cash on free casino games. Never share your personal information and update your privacy settings. Use strong passwords and know who you are playing with.
Social online gaming should be a fun and pleasurable experience. The second you feel that your safety is at risk, consult a gaming or cybersecurity expert. They’ll advise you on what to do next.