Page 107 - Cyber Defense eMagazine December 2022 Edition

enticed to click the download button to “protect” their computer. At this point, they are redirected to
malicious sites or they download the malware directly onto their computer.

How to prevent social engineering attacks

In order to prevent social engineering attacks while gaming, it is important to be very attentive in
discerning a real offer from a fake one. Here’s how to do so.

1. Use a unique, strong password for all of your gaming accounts. Ensure that each account has a
different username and password so that if one password is stolen, it can’t be used on every other
account.
2. Download games from safe sites and official stores whenever possible. Read reviews before you
download.
3. Do not open or click on any links that come from an unknown source, a pop-up or an unsolicited
message. Pay close click attention to the website address if you end up on a website you were
directed to. If it doesn’t feel right, it likely isn’t.
4. Don’t download cheats or any other illegal content. The repercussions are not worth it.
5. Avoid sharing personal information. If you receive an email or text message asking for your
gaming credentials or other personal information, ensure that you thoroughly verify the sender’s
identity before sharing any information.
6. Watch out for tempting offers! If you feel it is too good to be true, it likely is. You can always check
its validity by searching on google. Don’t be fooled by a too-good-to-be-true offer. Pay close
attention to the website link of the offer. If it doesn’t look legitimate, it likely isn’t.
7. Use multi-factor authentication. This is a great safety precaution that we highly recommend for all
gaming accounts. By using multi-factor authentication, your login credentials will be verified by
more than one means.
8. If you are gaming on a computer, install an antimalware solution and keep your operating system
software up to date. This will keep you on top of any security issues.
9. Be careful about what private and personal information you share on social media or in other
public forums like gaming chats. Sharing personal information makes it easier for attackers to
gain access to information about you.
10. If your child is a gamer, keep the lines of communication with them open and educate them about
cybersafety. Set up their gaming accounts with them and remind them the importance of asking
for help if someone sends them a link, sends them an offer or asks them for personal information.

Cyber Defense eMagazine – December 2022 Edition 107
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