If you’re a parent who’s been out of touch with the gaming scene for a while, the evolution of gaming might surprise you. Gaming today is not just about playing alone, as it used to be in the 1990s or early 2000s. Modern games revolve around communities where millions of players engage in a sense of camaraderie and teamwork in beautifully crafted virtual worlds.
Gaming is a major attraction for people of all ages, especially children and teenagers. However, as a parent, it’s crucial for you to be aware of your children’s online activities. While online gaming provides entertainment, it also poses cybersecurity risks. In the past, we’ve investigated how playing video games could expose individuals to cyberattacks. The safety concerns in gaming include ransomware, phishing, identity theft, credit card fraud, cyberbullying, and more.
Moreover, contemporary games present another prominent area of risk: financial fraud. If you’re a parent with children who are active gamers or just beginning to explore gaming, you may have come across the term ‘microtransactions.’ If not, let’s quickly bring you up to date.
The concept of microtransactions
Modern popular games like Fortnite, PUBG, and Call of Duty allow players to purchase in-game items using real money. These items can range from upgraded weapons to enhanced lives or additional customization options for virtual characters. While the idea of spending real money on virtual goods may seem strange, it’s a significant revenue source for game developers. According to a recent report by Forbes, the video game industry’s value is predicted to surpass $200 billion by 2023, with microtransactions fueling this growth.
If your kids are actively playing popular games, they might eventually want to engage in microtransactions. To ensure their safety, here are some tips for you as a parent:
1. Safeguard your card details from your children
Your financial information, including credit/debit card details, net banking passwords, or UPI pins, is crucial and could be misused. Your children should not have unrestricted access to this data, even if they require it for legitimate microtransactions. Establish a system where you can oversee and authorize each transaction, preventing your kids from using your card details for gaming purchases.
2. Teach your child to avoid clicking on unfamiliar links
Online gaming involves various personas, some of which may have malicious intent. Educate your children about the risks associated with clicking on links shared by unverified people in gaming environments, as these links could lead to malware-infected websites.
3. Prioritize legitimate microtransactions
Many individuals on gaming platforms try to exploit innocent gamers by selling unauthorized game items. For instance, a scammer might offer to sell an item promising unlimited lives in Fortnite. However, once the payment is made, the seller vanishes. Ensure that microtransactions are conducted only through legitimate platforms authorized by the game’s developers.
Gaming can be a delightful pastime for all age groups. By taking simple precautions and leveraging the capabilities of Quick Heal Total Security, you can ensure a safe gaming experience while keeping the excitement alive for your family.
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