The danger of MMO Games and Social Gaming

Security software specialists BitDefender suggest visitors to sites hosting MMO (Massively Multiplayer Online) and social games can be prime targets for cybercriminals.

Identity theft through PHISHING:

Gaming log-in pages are frequently targeted by cybercriminals. The masterminds behind these phishing attacks replicate the login pages of the social network that hosts the game, tricking gamers into providing their usernames and passwords. Under the pretext of a failed login error, some phishing sites request other types of information as well. Players might take a while to realise that their bank accounts or e-mails are in danger.

System infection with different types of MALWARE:

This is similar to the above - users receive apparently legitimate e-mails with a credible subject line and a persuasive body-text, in which they are required to open an attachment. The attachment is a bit of malware that once installed on the system, can damage the installed applications and steal data and information.

Increase in SPAM:

Gamers should be aware that an unhidden e-mail address exposes them to the risk of receiving a huge quantity of spam.

Illicit Use of Personal PICTURES:

Social networking applications are the ideal place for data and identity theft. However, recent attempts no longer focus on stealing valuable information about the user and his or her account. Pictures, e-cards and photo streams now seem to be the preferred target.

For the full article, including tips on how to help stay safe whilst gaming, visit Malware City