A confounding 78% of businesses in the gambling industry experienced some type of cyber risk in 2023.
As the igaming industry grows, so does the number of cybercriminals looking to exploit the rich caches of personal and financial data online casinos collect.
In fact, according to security analysis by Security Scorecard, online gambling is the third-most vulnerable industry to cybercrime, behind energy and finance.
But despite these numbers, only 45% of operators encrypt the data you entrust to them. So, how can you ensure your safety when you play online? Here are four tips to get you started:
Pick a Reputable Operator
Reputable casino operators like the betway casino are licensed by internationally-recognized regulatory bodies. To maintain their licenses, these providers must adhere to strict fair play and data protection regulations. This means they must create safe gaming environments for users like you and protect the personal and financial data you share with them.
Regulated operators are also subject to regular audits to ensure they maintain compliance. To find a reputable casino, look for licenses from bodies like:
- The UK Gambling Commission (UKGC)
- Curacao Gaming Authority (CGA)
- Gibraltar Gambling Commissioner (GGC), and
- Malta Gaming Authority (MGA)
These are usually displayed on an online casino’s home page.
Secure Your Account with Two-Factor Authentication
Two-factor authentication (TFA) is a security system that requires a user to provide two forms of identification to access an account. This is usually a password plus:
- A fingerprint
- Photo ID
- Date of birth
- An answer to a security question, like a favorite pet
While it is feasible that a cyber-attacker can guess your password, it will be harder for them to access both forms of identification, especially your biometrics.
Setting up TFA thus allows you to secure your online gaming account from hackers better.
Use Secure Payment Channels
Most online casinos offer multiple payment methods. While these third-party options make depositing and withdrawing money easier, they also present a cyber risk.
Whatever provider you use to transact through will gain access to your financial data. Ensure this is a trustworthy provider with a good track record and robust cybersecurity systems.
Lately, online players have also been turning to cryptocurrencies. Their anonymity, decentralized format, and secure ledgers make them one of the most secure transaction forms available today.
Beware of “Too-Good-to-Be-True” Deals
Beyond all the glitz and glamor, online gambling, like traditional gambling, is primarily based on luck. If you receive an email with “guaranteed wins,” be wary about clicking on it.
Online casino games like poker and blackjack are not get-rich-quick schemes. They are simply online versions of the games you love and have played many times before. While skill and strategy may improve your odds, no guaranteed wins exist. Anyone who promises that is a scammer.
Lastly, Your Online Safety Begins with You
The online gambling industry is a multi-billion-dollar industry with thousands of providers. Regulatory bodies can only do so much to protect you. The rest is up to you.
Update the software on your phone and laptop, install firewalls and antimalware protection, set strong passwords, and use your discretion when opening promotional emails.
Most importantly, only play on a reputable site like Betway, where you are sure your data is safe.
