Why Two-Factor Authentication is Important for Online Gaming Security

The online gaming industry has enjoyed a surge in popularity thanks to improvements in hardware technology and global connectivity. Mobile technology has developed at such a rate that many users now use devices for gaming. At the same time, 5G connectivity and Wi-Fi networks have improved internet connectivity to the point where consumers can enjoy strong and secure connections.

Gaming consoles, laptops, and home computers all provide ways for gamers to enjoy even more impressive and immersive gaming experiences from the comfort of their own home.

But with these new technologies and developments come risks. Online gaming often requires players to provide information when signing up and payment details are regularly required. This provides cybercriminals with an opportunity to steal valuable information unless sites and users follow strict security protocols.

One way that criminal activity is being thwarted is through the use of two-factor authentication as a way of ensuring only the correct person can access their account.

Two Factor Authentication Explained

The traditional way for consumers to access any online account is by entering their password which will be linked to an email address. Two-factor authentication requires an additional step that could include the user being sent a one-use code to their associated email or phone number.

The purpose of this is to ensure only the person who has access to their email account or mobile device can access the account.

Biometric authentication is another way of providing secure access to users, with accounts linked to facial recognition systems or ones that use fingerprint technology for users to gain access.

The Security Benefits of Two-Factor Authentication for Online Gamers

Many gamers want fast access to their accounts whether that is to enjoy the latest game titles or to place a wager on traditional casino games or other betting markets.

Two-factor authentication can delay access by providing an additional barrier to certain platforms, but the benefits far outweigh the negatives.

Required by Some Regulators

In many cases, gambling sites will require 2FA (two-factor authentication) before users can access casino games and slots. This is part of gambling regulations that operators must adhere to as part of their licensing agreement.

This level of security helps protect player’s details. 2FA is found in online casinos around the world, in addition to other security measures such as SSL encryption. 

Online casino expert Tsubasa Kobayashi states that overseas casinos are safe given that they are regulated and licensed by a foreign regulator. (Source: https://www.business2community.com/jp/gambling/online-casino-overseas). Overseas betting sites can also provide a range of benefits for new users, such as 24/7 customer support. Users should also avoid sites that don’t use SSL encryption to protect data transfers.

Prevents Unauthorized Account Access

Account security is key to keeping your sensitive data secure. 2FA greatly improves the chances of stopping cybercriminals from accessing your account, and can also act as a deterrent for them targetting specific sites.

Most online criminal activities are opportunistic, and while they may use sophisticated techniques to attempt to access accounts or scam users, they will often look for system weaknesses before attempting to access accounts.

Sites that use robust security protocols will be less likely to be targeted, with crooks looking for easier opportunities.

Protects the User Against Phishing

Phishing scams are a type of fraud that is perpetrated by criminals who attempt to get personal information from users. This is often done via phone calls, text, or email.

Attempts to gather banking information, credit card details, and passwords are common and many of these scams look like legitimate inquiries.

2FA adds another layer of protection for users who fall victim to these scams as they require users to confirm attempts to access accounts through other means like one-use codes or biometric authentication.

Provides the User with Notifications of Access Attempts

If an attempt is made to access an account the user will be notified by text or email depending on the choices they made during the installation process. Alerts might ask the user if they recently tried to access the account or notify them of an unrecognized network. If the user confirms that this was not them, it allows the site to conduct further investigations.

Early notification of attempted account hacking is essential to the security of users and sites and can protect other users when identified which is why reporting these attempts is so important.

Conclusion

Online security is a priority for most people who regularly access the internet. Gamers can be particularly vulnerable due to the information they provide when signing up and any payment information they link to their account for convenience.

2FA is an excellent deterrent and provides the security required to protect accounts and sensitive information. Users will still have to follow good online practices and be wary of who they share information with, but this system has provided significant help to modern gamers.