The online gaming industry is a significant market, generating an estimated $184.4 billion in 2022, and attracting cybercriminals who target gamers for financial gain. Hackers exploit reused credentials, where one hacked account can jeopardize other accounts, and stolen credentials from an old browser game can be used to access more valuable accounts. Many gaming accounts are linked to credit cards, making them a prime target for attackers. Booby-trapped games and malware threats are common. Mobile games are easier to develop than desktop games, but are often insecure as malicious code can sometimes slip through the filters of major app stores like Google Play. Keyloggers are malicious programs hidden in popular games that record what you type and can steal your password. Gamers can protect themselves by exercising caution and getting educated on common criminal tactics.
