Whether you enjoy strategy games, casino apps or multiplayer adventures, your device connects you to endless entertainment. However, unsecured apps can expose you to malware, and in-game purchases may lead to unexpected charges. By taking a few simple precautions, you can keep your gaming experience enjoyable while protecting your device, data and money.
Download games from trusted sources
Only download games from official app stores such as the Google Play Store or Apple App Store. These platforms have strict security measures that help filter out malicious apps before they reach users.
Avoid third-party websites offering free or modified versions of paid games. These often contain malware designed to steal your data or install harmful software on your device. Some of these applications disguise themselves as legitimate games but operate in the background, collecting personal information without your knowledge. If a game isn’t available on a trusted store, question why before taking the risk.
Keep your device and apps updated
Cybercriminals can exploit security flaws in outdated software to gain access to your devices. Keeping your operating system and gaming apps updated ensures you have the latest security patches that protect against new threats. Hackers constantly look for ways to bypass defences, and software updates close these gaps before they can be exploited.
To simplify this process, enable automatic updates on your phone. If you prefer manual updates, check for them regularly in your device’s settings and within the app store.
Use strong, unique passwords and enable two-factor authentication
Many people reuse the same password across multiple accounts, making it simple for cybercriminals to gain access if just one account is compromised. Instead of using common phrases, try to create a password that combines upper and lowercase letters, numbers and symbols. A password manager can help you generate and store complicated passwords securely.
Where available, enable two-factor authentication (2FA). This adds an extra layer of security by requiring a second form of verification, for example, a text message with a code or an authentication app. Even if someone guesses your password, they won’t be able to access your account without this additional step.
Monitor in-app purchases and set spending limits
Some games, including popular ones like bingo, offer in-app purchases that can accumulate costs quickly. To prevent your expenses from getting out of hand, players can enable spend limits or a feature called ‘game freeze’, which blocks them from playing a certain game.
By taking these precautions, you can enjoy gaming on your smartphone without compromising or worrying about your security.
