Online Video Games: Today, online video games are more than just a way to have fun, they have become a target for scammers who want to steal money or personal information. Because many games now have real-money systems and social features, they’re an easy target for fraud. Here’s how scammers use video games to commit fraud and how players and game companies can protect themselves.
How Fraud Happens
Online video games have many features that make it easy for scammers to trick players:
In-Game Purchases and Virtual Money
Many games have their own money, like V-Bucks in Fortnite or Robux in Roblox, which players buy with real money. Scammers use tricks like fake websites or promises of “free” currency to steal accounts or money from players. These fake websites may ask for personal information or payment details, which scammers then use for fraud.
Account and Item Trading Scams
Some games let players trade items or accounts. These items, like rare skins or powerful weapons, can be valuable. Scammers trick players into fake trades or payments and then disappear without giving what they promised. This usually happens on unofficial trading sites, which lack proper security.
Phishing Links and Malware
Scammers might send messages with links to fake sites that look real. When players enter their login details, scammers steal the information. Some fake sites also have malware, which is software that can hack into personal devices. Malware is often hidden in “free” cheats or modes that players download.
Cryptocurrency Scams in Blockchain Games
New types of games use cryptocurrency as their main form of money. Scammers use this by creating fake “investments” or “rare items” that players buy with crypto. These scams often end with the scammers disappearing with the money.
Money Laundering
Money laundering means hiding where money really came from by moving it around. Some scammers turn real money into in-game items, then trade or sell those items to cover up the money’s origin. This works especially well in games where players can trade items freely.
Real Examples of Fraud in Games
Many well-known cases show how scammers use online games to trick people:
Fake V-Bucks in Fortnight: Many sites offer free or cheap V-Bucks, but these are often fake. They may collect personal information or download malware onto a player’s device.
Stolen Steam Accounts: On Steam’s gaming platform, phishing scams steal accounts and valuable in-game items, which can be resold for real money.
Crypto Scams in Blockchain Games: In games like Axie Infinity, scammers hype up fake items that players buy with cryptocurrency. These items are worthless, but players don’t realize until it’s too late.
How To Prevent Fraud?
Education- Both players and companies need to understand how online fraud works. Games could show warnings or quick guides on spotting scams.
Account Security- Game companies should offer two-factor authentication (2FA) to protect accounts. This adds a second layer of security, making it harder for scammers to hack accounts.
Watching for Suspicious Activity- Game companies should use tools to detect unusual actions, like strange trading patterns. Technology can help spot fraud by flagging unusual behaviour.
Safe Payments- Players should buy in-game currency only through official stores, not third-party sites that are often used for scams.
Working with Law Enforcement—Since online games are global, game companies need to collaborate with police and security agencies to track down fraudsters and stop scams.
Caution is necessary
As online video games become more popular, they’re becoming a new target for fraud. Young players and high volumes of transactions make games appealing to scammers. Players need to be careful and aware of scams, and game companies need strong security to protect their users. By learning more and staying alert, we can make gaming safer for everyone.
