More and more of our daily interactions are happening online. From chats with friends to online shopping, playing games to searching for information, it’s all been made so much easier.
But that’s not always a good thing, because it’s also made it easier for others to steal our information.
Most internet users don’t understand the specifics of how websites work or how data is sent and received, but most car users also don’t understand exactly what happens in the engine when they push the accelerator. The big difference is car users know what to do to stay safe – like wearing a seatbelt, keeping the tyres inflated, and getting regular services. If internet users all did the same things online, their information would be much safer.
Going online to for entertainment can be very enjoyable and it opens up a whole new world of digital games like online bingo. But bingo players can be particularly vulnerable when playing online, because there are so many different opportunities for hackers and identity thieves to get their hands on their data, especially if they’re not aware of how to protect themselves. Luckily, keeping safe is relatively easy, all you need to do is follow these tips:
Use Strong Passwords
When you join an online bingo site you need to make an account which stores your details like your address, phone number, email address, and bank information for deposits and withdrawals. In order to protect this information you need to make sure, you use a strong password. Avoid names and dates that are connected to you, instead you should opt for a random combination of letters, numbers, and symbols. If that’s too difficult to remember, try a pair of unconnected words, for example, tiredpaint, as these are both easier to remember and harder to guess.
Use Online Wallets for Payments
Online wallets create a quicker and safer way for players to make payments.
Playing bingo online means you have to deposit money in your account, and most good sites will offer you a number of ways to do this including credit card, bank transfer, and online wallets such as PayPal. You should always opt for the online wallet because it adds another layer of security between your bank details and hackers. Instead of entering your credit or debit card details into every website you shop from, they are only stored in one place, making them far harder to find. If anyone does intercept an unencrypted transaction, the only information they will receive is about your online wallet, not your bank details or credit card number.
Use a VPN in Public
Public wi-fi is everywhere nowadays but it is dangerous to assume it has the same security as your home wi-fi. However, there is a way to use the public wi-fi and still stay safe; make sure you have a VPN installed on your phone, tablet, or laptop. A VPN routes all your data through an additional server so that no one can monitor your activity or see any of your information. You can find several free options or purchase one at a reasonable price if you want to opt for a few more bells and whistles.
Use Antivirus Software on your PC
If you play bingo on your PC you’ll want to make sure that you’re using antivirus software to stop hackers from downloading viruses and worms onto your machine. These programs can let other people see onto your machine and track what you’re doing – including seeing all the passwords and bank details you type into websites. Make sure you keep your software up to date with the latest virus and malware information and remember to run regular scans to clear out trackers and viruses that might have made their way onto your machine.
Don’t Give Details in Chat
Many online bingo sites have a chat function that lets you communicate with other players and make new friends. But beware, some scammers might make accounts so that they can ask you for your password or banking information. Never give out your details over the chat function, even if it’s to someone you know and trust, as other people can easily see it and the chat records aren’t encrypted, making them easy for hackers to find.
Only Use UK Licenced Sites
The UKGC only licenses the best casinos and bingo sites for use by UK players. One of the conditions for getting a license is that websites must adhere to strict security standards including the encryption of all bank transfers. Online casinos and bingo sites must also agree to be independently audited so they are always held to account by external services. This means that if there are any issues or anything that the provider is failing to do, they are quickly picked up on. If a site has been licensed, you know it’s a safe place to play.
In Summary
Staying safe online is easy if you know how. By following these simple steps you can make sure that your data and private information is kept safe and sound, leaving you to concentrate on your bingo game, and not on your bank account.
