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Diving into the virtual world can cost you your privacy.
The online gaming sector continues to grow rapidly, offering various gaming activities in digital format. The growth and transformation of this sector in recent years has been made possible by the expansion of online gaming platforms, changing user preferences, and technological innovations.
However, behind the veil of exciting gameplay lurk dangers. Researchers from Aalto University's Department of Computer Science have discovered questionable data collection practices in online games. Platforms often require users to create accounts with personal information, and also collect data on player statistics, in-game purchases, chat logs, and user content.
Professor Janne Lindqvist noted: "We were struck by how conscious players are about maintaining their privacy. For example, they avoid using voice chat unless absolutely necessary. Some games try to encourage players to reveal their online identities by offering virtual rewards in return."
Researchers have identified examples of "dark design", where an interface manipulates users to act in certain ways, such as connecting their social media profiles or allowing information to be shared between players.
The authors recommend that online gaming platforms implement transparent and unambiguous privacy policies, specifying what data is collected, how it is used, and with whom it is shared. Users consent to data collection and processing must be obtained by all online gaming platforms.
"Games really need to be fun and safe for everyone, with respect for player autonomy," Lindqvist concluded.
The online gaming sector continues to grow rapidly, offering various gaming activities in digital format. The growth and transformation of this sector in recent years has been made possible by the expansion of online gaming platforms, changing user preferences, and technological innovations.
However, behind the veil of exciting gameplay lurk dangers. Researchers from Aalto University's Department of Computer Science have discovered questionable data collection practices in online games. Platforms often require users to create accounts with personal information, and also collect data on player statistics, in-game purchases, chat logs, and user content.
Professor Janne Lindqvist noted: "We were struck by how conscious players are about maintaining their privacy. For example, they avoid using voice chat unless absolutely necessary. Some games try to encourage players to reveal their online identities by offering virtual rewards in return."
Researchers have identified examples of "dark design", where an interface manipulates users to act in certain ways, such as connecting their social media profiles or allowing information to be shared between players.
The authors recommend that online gaming platforms implement transparent and unambiguous privacy policies, specifying what data is collected, how it is used, and with whom it is shared. Users consent to data collection and processing must be obtained by all online gaming platforms.
"Games really need to be fun and safe for everyone, with respect for player autonomy," Lindqvist concluded.
