According to new research released last week by the online
identity experts Garlik, 'cybercriminals' are targeting virtual
world and online gaming logins which provide instant access to
users' personal details and financial information.
Garlik found that the level of personal and financial data
accessible via stolen cyberspace logins is generating as much as
£4.5 million a year. The fraudsters are trading login details
for as little as £3 per account, but they are stealing huge
sums of money by trading tens of thousands of accounts per year,
opening the door to a multi-million pound pay-out. Garlik
recommends changing your password frequently and ensuring a
different password is used for each outlet such as your gaming
account, online banking and e-mail. Additionally, never 'lend' your
online gaming account to someone to play for you.
Ukash recommends that the online community make use of
alternative payment methods that allow consumers to spend online
without sharing financial details. Ukash allows you to use cash to
shop, pay and play online, meaning that even if your login details
are stolen your bank account details won't be and your money is
safe.
Mark Chirnside, CEO of Ukash said: "Online gamers should be very
wary of the information they link to their gaming accounts.
Protecting login details is an important part of keeping private
and financial details safe from fraud, but playing and paying
online with cash is the only guaranteed way of protecting your bank
account and finances from cybercriminals who are increasingly
targeting the virtual world.
One of the reasons so many people use Ukash when paying online
is for that extra assurance - knowing their money is safe - which
allows them to sit back and enjoy playing online without the fear
of fraud."