Online casinos have absolutely revolutionized the gambling industry. No longer do you have to venture out to a brick-and-mortar establishment to get your fix; now, you can literally access casino games whenever and wherever you please. Not only can you play on your computer or laptop, but most online casinos now also have apps, making access that much easier. From the first online casinos, we have seen huge improvements to play. Technological advancements have seen improved graphics, fewer glitches, and a generally smoother gaming experience, so there is no wonder the popularity of online casinos has blown through the roof. But with this shift to digital casino games, comes cybersecurity risks. As money and personal details are involved, making sure you are safe and secure as an online casino enthusiast is essential, and here are ten tips to help you.
Use Strong Passwords
You’ve heard this one time and time again, but having strong passwords really is one of the best ways to keep your information safe when using the internet. You are supposed to have a different password for almost everything, because then if one of them becomes breached, the hackers won’t be able to gain access to everything else as well. On top of this, it is also advised to update your password every few months, especially on platforms like online casinos where personal data or money is involved.
Multi-Factor Authentication
You will notice a lot of websites now add an extra step when signing in, especially when signing in from a new device. This is called multifactor authentication (MFA). MFA means that as well as entering your password, you have to prove that it is you using another method of identification as well. A common method used by many reputable online casinos is having a code sent to your phone number or email address that you have to enter before being able to gain access to your casino account.
Anti-Virus Software
For any kind of internet use, your device should have antivirus software installed. A virus poses a threat to your cybersecurity by potentially sharing information without permission and causes changes to your device system. As an online casino enthusiast, it is essential that you have this software installed and that you are making sure you keep it updated. Usually, you will be prompted to update, but it is worth checking every few months if you are an avid casino gamer.
Use a Virtual Private Network (VPN)
Having a VPN connection is basically software that encrypts your network. Your IP address gives away your exact location, but by using a VPN, your IP address is changed. This adds an extra layer of protection to your cybersecurity, allowing you to use the internet and online casino platforms anonymously. Someone looking to gather your data will have a much harder time doing so if you are using a VPN.
Reputable and HTTPS Websites
Sometimes you can just tell when a website or online casino is not quite right. Maybe it is the graphics, poor spelling, or something else weird about the page that gives you a feeling. Trust your gut; don’t chance giving your personal details to a website that you don’t have confidence in. One way to be sure that the site is legit and not a threat to your cybersecurity is to check for the HTTPS in the webpage URL, as this means it is encrypted and data is secured. If you are on the search for reputable online casinos, you need look no further than OnlineCasinos. They have tried and tested the best online casino sites and compiled their findings into a top ten list, complete with scores, ratings, and bonuses. By using a casino from their list, you know you can play casino games safely and securely.
Dedicated Gaming Server
Having a specific server that is solely used for playing online casino games is a cybersecurity tip that is simple and easy to implement. By using a dedicated server, none of your personal information is saved, like bank details and passwords, reducing the likelihood of data breaches. Not only does it improve your cybersecurity, but you may also see improvements to your gaming experience by speeding it up, removing any lag and enhancing your performance.
Avoid Phishing
This is probably one of the easiest ways that hackers and scammers get a hold of your personal data. You are likely to receive hundreds of emails and messages as you sign up to different casinos and from your other online activities. Before clicking any links in messages or emails, ensure that they have definitely been sent by official accounts or websites. It is easy to overlook the email address or account name and move straight on to the content of the message, but this is what cybercriminals rely on for phishing scams. Always double-check the sender before clicking any links, and if something doesn’t look right, delete it.
Don’t Use Public Wi-Fi Networks
It can be tempting to jump onto that free Wi-Fi and save your data, but if you are playing online casino games, this can be a risk to your cybersecurity. You don’t know who the network belongs to, and it could have been set up to infiltrate data from unsuspecting users. You know your mobile network is secure, and you have already taken the steps to make sure your personal home network is as secure as it could possibly be by using the tips above. Connect to your personal network at home and save your data for when you are out and about.
Have Your Wits About You
Sometimes, maintaining your cybersecurity is just a matter of common sense. Don’t willingly hand out any of your personal details to anyone you get chatting too whilst playing online casino games or using other online platforms. Avoid causing any trouble or bring negative attention to yourself when you are gaming, as this may make you a cybercriminal target. Be sensible, so you can continue to enjoy safe and secure casino games.
If you are an online casino enthusiast, keeping your information safe is absolutely essential, and these 10 tips will help ensure you avoid any cybersecurity breaches in the future.