Safe and Sound: How Online Casinos protect against Hackers and How You Can Help Them

The UK gambling industry is one of the biggest in the world, with 44% of British people saying they were involved in some form of gambling in the past month. Couple this with the fact that more and more businesses and industries find themselves online these days and it automatically becomes a hotbed for attempted cyber attacks. 

Cyber threats, such as hacking, phishing, and other types of cyberattacks, can jeopardize the security of online casinos in the UK, along with players’ personal and financial information. 

In this article, we will explore why there is such a threat from cyberspace, where these threats come from, common types of cyberattacks, and how online casinos prevent cyber-attacks to ensure the safety of their players.

Why is there such a threat from cyberspace?

Online casinos are a prime target for cyber attackers due to the vast amount of personal and financial information that is exchanged during online gambling sessions. The UK gambling industry alone is worth over £14 Billion. This makes British online casinos a very attractive target for cybercriminals looking to make a quick profit.

Where do these threats come from?

Cyber threats can come from a variety of sources, including hackers, malicious software, and even employees (although the latter type is more often the source material for Film and TV shows).

Hackers can use techniques such as phishing, social engineering, and malware to gain access to online casinos’ systems. Additionally, malicious software, such as viruses and trojans, can be used to infect a player’s computer and steal sensitive information. 

Let’s look at some of these types of cyberattacks hackers use in more detail.

Common types of cyberattacks

Phishing

Phishing is a type of cyberattack that involves tricking the victim into providing personal information, such as login credentials and financial details. Cybercriminals use fake websites or emails that look legitimate to lure players into providing this information. This is perhaps the most common type of cyber attack which average individuals can suffer from daily. It is important to remember that reputable casinos, like banks, would never ask you to divulge personal or financial information over emails or text messages.

Malware

Malware is a type of malicious software that can be used to gain access to players’ personal information. Cybercriminals can use malware to steal passwords, credit card numbers, and other sensitive data. Malware is usually reserved for more advanced cybercriminal activity, although people should be wary about downloading certain files from internet sources they are unsure of.

Distributed Denial of Service (DDoS)

DDoS attacks are a type of cyberattack that overwhelms a server or network with an enormous amount of traffic, rendering it unable to provide services to legitimate users. Attackers accomplish this by using a network of compromised devices, known as a botnet, to flood the target server with traffic. DDoS attacks are used to disrupt or shut down websites, servers, or online services, which can result in significant financial loss for businesses. An example of this type of cyber attack is the attack which Github suffered in 2018.

How Online Casinos prevent Cyber Attacks

The popularity of online gambling ensures that casinos use a range of measures to prevent cyberattacks and protect their players. One data breach or leak could be detrimental to a casino’s reputation, as people would not be able to trust that they would not be able to protect their data. 

However, there are a number of ways licensed online casinos can ensure the protection of their customer’s personal details.  

Encryption

Encryption is a way to protect information by converting it into a secret code that only someone with the right code key can decipher. In simple terms, it is like putting your information into a locked box and only the person with the correct key can open it. Online casinos use encryption to protect their players’ personal information, such as login details and financial information.  This ensures that if a hacker gains access to the information, they will not be able to read it.

Two-Factor Authentication

Another measure that online casinos use to prevent cyberattacks is two-factor authentication.

Two-factor authentication is a security measure that requires users to provide two forms of identification before they can access their account. This usually involves entering a password and providing a unique code that is sent to their mobile phone or email address. This prevents hackers from accessing the account even if they have the password.

Secure payment processing technology

Trusted and reputable UK casinos are licensed by the UK Gambling Commission and are therefore required to use only the most advanced payment processing methods and technology to ensure that deposits and withdrawals cannot be infiltrated by third-party cyber entities. If you feel an online casino is using a payment provider that looks suspicious, you can make a complaint to the UKGC.

Are casinos impenetrable?

It is almost impossible for a computer system to be foolproof, and online casinos are no exception.

Online casinos use dedicated cyber security teams and agencies, which are constantly monitoring their system for any kind of activity which will put customer information at risk. They use advanced detection systems and firewalls to prevent any unauthorised access, along with being required to constantly audit their technology and fix system vulnerabilities.

However, while top online casinos will do everything they can to protect sensitive information from cyber attacks, it is important for the customer to also take certain measures to ensure complete safety while gambling.

Passwords protection

Online gamblers should always keep their casino account passwords up to date, along with using strong ones that are not easy to guess. It is also recommended to use unique passwords for each account.

Avoid dodgy emails

Caution should be taken upon receiving any suspicious emails or phone messages. Reputable casinos will never ask for sensitive details over emails, text messages or phone conversations.

Update Software

It is important to keep software up-to-date. This decreases the chance of hackers gaining access to information by exploiting known vulnerabilities in older software.

Reputation is key

Cyberattacks are a significant threat to online casinos, and they must take strict measures to protect their players’ personal information and funds. Online casinos use a range of measures, including encryption and two-factor authentication, to prevent cyberattacks and ensure the safety and security of their players. As a player, it is essential to be vigilant and cautious when using online casinos and always ensure that you are using a reputable and secure online casino.

Fortunately, GamlingAuthority only trusts the very best and most secure online casinos in the UK, so you will always be safe playing at one of our recommendations.

 

Resources:

The UK Gambling Commission

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