Imagine sitting comfortably on the sofa, controllers in hand, ready to immerse yourself in the virtual world. But instead of relaxing, you are now a potential target for cybercriminals. Yes you've read correctly. Your favorite games are no longer just a game - they're the new gold for hackers.
The gaming industry has become a financial powerhouse. But with a lot of money comes a lot of interest - and not always just friendly. Stephan Dykgers from Imperva makes it clear: “The industry generates billions in sales.” But it's not just the money that attracts hackers, but also the flood of user data.
The value of in-game items
Have you ever bought a virtual sword or a rare pet in an online game? This may sound absurd to many, but such digital goods can be worth enormous amounts of money today. And where there is real value, thieves are not far away.
According to Dykgers, it's not just external attacks that are a problem. Insiders who have access to intellectual property can also pose a threat. The recent data breach at Nvidia is a clear example of how much damage such incidents can cause.
E-sport gaming as an attractive goal
Imagine you are watching an exciting e-sports match and suddenly the game is interrupted by a DDoS attack. Frustrating, isn't it? However, this can be a lucrative way for attackers to gain an unfair advantage.
And any hacker can do that. It has become shockingly easy. Services such as “DDoS-for-hire” are widespread in the industry. Highly specialized knowledge is no longer required to spread chaos in the virtual world. Dykgers describes it aptly: “In this way, the user can easily win.”
Gaming: What can you do?
While gaming companies are strengthening their defenses, there are also ways for players to better protect themselves. Simple steps like choosing a strong password or avoiding linking gaming and social media accounts can make a big difference. And you should take Dykgers' advice to heart: "Be careful what you say or type while playing."
Conclusion
The world of gaming has changed. While it continues to provide countless hours of fun and entertainment, one should be aware of the new risks. Cybercriminals have targeted the industry and the threats are more real than ever. But if you stay informed and protect yourself, you can continue to move safely in the virtual world. So: put the controller in your hand and open your eyes – there is more going on in the gaming world than you think!

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