Start With Strong, Unique Passwords
If you’re using the same password for Steam, Discord, and your email it’s not a matter of if you get hacked, it’s when. Reused passwords are the low hanging fruit hackers go for first. Once they get into one account, they’ll try the same login across every platform you might be on. It’s called credential stuffing, and it works.
The fix is simple, but most gamers ignore it: use a password manager. These tools generate complex, random passwords for every account you own and remember them so you don’t have to. One strong master password unlocks them all. No more typing “DragonSlayer123!” everywhere.
Speaking of, ditch the gamer y passwords and cute keyboard patterns. Hackers know all the moves your birthday, your gamertag, or “qwerty123” aren’t fooling anyone. Strong security starts with strong passwords. Get serious about it, because no kill streak is worth losing your account.
Turn on Two Factor Authentication
Even a strong password isn’t always enough to keep hackers out. Two factor authentication (2FA) adds an essential layer of security to your gaming accounts.
Why 2FA Matters
Drastically reduces the risk of unauthorized access: Even if someone gets your password, they still need a second method (like a code from your phone) to get in.
Blocks most automated hacking attempts: Many account takeovers rely on stolen credentials. 2FA stops these attacks cold.
Always Go App Based When Possible
SMS based 2FA is better than nothing, but using an authentication app is even safer. Apps generate one time codes that can’t be intercepted as easily as text messages.
Recommended apps include:
Google Authenticator
Authy
Microsoft Authenticator
Avoid relying solely on SMS for sensitive accounts
Most Platforms Make 2FA Easy
Gaming services know security is an issue and most now offer built in 2FA options.
Check your account settings on platforms like Steam, PlayStation Network, Xbox Live, Ubisoft, and Epic Games
Look for security sections labeled “two step verification”, “login verification”, or “2FA setup”
Want a simple walkthrough? Check out this step by step guide:
Learn how to set it up here: two factor authentication
Watch for Phishing It’s the #1 Threat
Phishing is still the easiest way hackers get in. One sketchy link in your inbox or DMs can wreck your account in minutes. Just because something looks official doesn’t mean it is. Always double check before clicking especially if a message is pushing you to act fast or “verify” your login info.
Never enter your credentials on a site you reached through a link in a message. If something feels off, trust your gut: close out, open a new browser tab, and go straight to the real site manually. Logging in the right way is your best defense. It takes 10 extra seconds. Worth it.
Secure Your Devices Too
It’s not just your account that needs backing up your gear matters. Start with this rule: your devices should never be the weak link. Install a reputable antivirus program and actually let it do its job. Real time protection can catch shady files before they snag your login or worse.
Next, keep everything updated. Your operating system, your browser, the launcher your games run on all of it. Hackers bank on you being lazy about updates. Don’t give them the vulnerability gift wrap they’re hoping for.
Finally, lock down your home Wi Fi. Your router’s password shouldn’t be ‘admin123’ or anything close. Create a strong one and change it from the factory default. A secure connection is your first defense line don’t skip it.
Bonus Tip: Don’t Overshare Online
Hackers play the long game. They don’t always break in through brute force they wait for you to hand them the keys. Things like your email address, your dog’s name, or your high school mascot can all be used to reset your passwords. Keep that stuff off your profile, streams, and bios.
Next, check your privacy settings. Most games and platforms let you control exactly what others can see. Take advantage of that. Hiding your real name, location, and contact info is the minimum. Not every follower, teammate, or opponent needs to know who you are off screen.
Be wary of connecting your account to any random third party app, even if it promises cool features or freebies. Many of these apps are fronts or they’ve got weak security themselves. Stick to trusted integrations from known developers and platforms. If you aren’t sure, skip it.
Online safety isn’t just about protecting your account. It’s about keeping your identity yours.
Final Call: Fortify and Don’t Wait
Hackers don’t take weekends off, and they definitely don’t wait for you to catch up. If your accounts aren’t secured, they’re vulnerable plain and simple. The good news? You don’t need hours of setup. Give it 15 minutes. That’s enough time to tighten up your logins, check your connected accounts, and activate a strong layer of protection.
Start by turning on two factor authentication (2FA). It’s not just a checkbox it’s one of the best lines of defense you have. Skip SMS based codes if you can, and go for app based options like Google Authenticator or Authy. They’re more secure and easy to use.
Don’t wait for a scare or a breach. Take action now and get ahead of the curve. Here’s how to set up 2FA if you’re not sure where to start.
