Cybersecurity for Video Game Consoles

Did you know video game consoles can be used as a target of cyberattacks? Although gaming consoles are great entertainment devices, models of the past decade are internet-connected, making them easy targets for cyber threats. Read below for helpful tips on how to keep yourself and your kids protected against gaming console-related cyberattacks.

Why do cybercriminals target consoles?

With the release of new console generations every couple of years, gaming itself becomes more costly—which means your accounts are more valuable to cybercriminals. Cybercriminals target consoles as they are trying to steal the accounts, games, achievements, and items and sell these commodities for profit. Cybercriminals also try to steal the credit card information associated with the gaming account.

Multi-factor authentication

All major game consoles such as Xbox, PlayStation, and Nintendo, have multi-factor authentication (MFA) options in their setting’s menus. MFA provides an extra layer of protection for players by requiring more than one step for confirming your identity. Ensure you enable MFA on your gaming console settings to stay secure.

Use strong passwords

Nowadays, using a password that is a word and a number that is easy for you to remember, is also easy for cybercriminals to hack. Strengthen your password by using a combination of letters, numbers, and symbols—no ties to your personal information, and no dictionary words.

Phishing scams

Cybercriminals are known to use phishing messages to target and steal gaming accounts. This includes sending emails pretending to be from the game console creator, notifying you of false account issues, asking you to log in to a malicious site or chat, or messages offering free in-game currency or another giveaway. Remember to be mindful of these types of scams while playing online. If it sounds too good to be true, then it probably is.

Stay Secure with TIM!

At TIM, we believe every gamer should understand the cyber threats involved with playing video games. Be sure to take our tips into consideration the next time you want to battle with others in cyberspace.

TIM has the right insurance coverage to protect you against cyberattacks. Contact us today for more information.

For more information about Cybersecurity for Video Game Consoles, please visit the Government of Canada article.