Video onine games can expose players to various ways of cyberattacks and computer viruses(malware, phishing, trolls and cyber bullying, cheats and frauds, character and inventory theft). The attacks come both from unsafe behaviors by the players and from inadequate security in the servers hosting the games. Many online games require players to have credit cards registered with the server so they can pay for special treatment or game artifacts, such as alluring attire, powerful weapons, or extra game points. If the server is successfully attacked, players’ credit card information could be exposed. 
Here are our Tips for safe Online Gaming
- Play online games only when you have effective and updated antivirus/antispyware software and firewall running.
- Use strong, unique passwords, use complex and unique passwords for your in-game account and your primary e-mail address
- Use anonymous gamertags that don’t allude to personal information
- Don’t share personal information
- Choose a user name that does not reveal any personal information.
- Use a complex router name with no personal information.
- Consider installing a separate Wi-Fi network for guests.
- Make sure you keep the game software up to date. Most multiplayer games automatically update themselves before letting you connect. Be very wary about downloading any unauthorised program relating to the game
- Read the manufacturer or hosting company's terms and conditions to make sure there will not be any immediate or future hidden charges.
- Only download from reputable sources
- Enable voice recognition so your devices only listen to trusted users.
- Research the game developers as well as the vendor or marketplace
- Play only with authorised versions of games which you have purchased from the trusted sources and for which you have a licence.
- Verify the authenticity and security of downloaded files and new software by buying from trusted sources.
- Set up two-factor authentication for the account
- Don’t accept suspicious offers from strangers. If an offer sounds too good to be true, it probably is.
- Avoid trading in-game goods outside of the official game marketplace dramatically increases your chances of being deceived.
- Never reveal your real identity or personal details to your gaming partners
- Never click a link in an e-mail or text message from suspicious, unknown address
- Find a good antivirus which includes “game mode” features to keep performance high, and which won’t discourage gamers from staying secure with false-positives.
- As you progress in a game, be more and more cautious with your account, the better your in-game character, the more likely hackers are to target you personally.
- Install and use a VPN when playing games that expose your IP address
Norton 360 for Gamers includes multi-layered, advanced technology to help block threats and targeted attacks to your PC and other devices, and to help protect your gaming account information, includes protection against viruses, malware, DDoS, doxxing, webcam take-overs, phishing attacks and more.