Many of us enjoy playing free games on our phones, from classic puzzles like Solitaire to engaging word games such as Word Crush and Word Blast. Recently, Gail C reached out with a concern about the safety of playing these free memory games, asking if they pose any risks to her bank accounts. Her email highlights an important question:
I play about 10 memory games on my phone (Solitaire, Word Crush, Word Blast, & Mahjong). Is that dangerous to my bank accounts? They are all free, and I ask them not to track me.
The short answer: playing free memory games isn’t directly dangerous to your bank accounts, but there are real privacy and security risks you should know about. Here’s what’s going on, and how to protect yourself.
Data collection and privacy concerns
Free games often make their money by collecting user data and running ads. Even if you ask them not to track you, many still gather information through:
- Third-party ad networks that log your device type, location, and in-app activity.
- Signing in to social media with Google, Facebook, or Apple can allow cross-app tracking and link your gaming activity to your main accounts.
- App analytics tools that work in the background, sometimes without clear consent.
Studies show free apps are about twice as likely to include ad libraries, which can access data like your location or device ID, increasing your privacy risk.
Potential security threats
While they may not connect directly to your bank accounts, free games can still create pathways for hackers:
- Malicious ads or pop-ups that lead to phishing sites designed to steal logins.
- Overreaching permissions, such as games requesting access to your contacts, microphone, or files without needing them for gameplay.
- Fake versions of popular games from unofficial sources that install malware or spyware.
Some malicious apps have even been caught running hidden processes, including mining cryptocurrency in the background, which can drain your battery and spike your data usage.
How to stay safe while enjoying free mobile games
While there are potential risks associated with free mobile games, you can take several steps to protect yourself and your personal information. Here are some tips to help you enjoy your favorite games safely:
1) Keep gaming and banking separate
a) Avoid storing banking information on your phone.
b) Use different passwords for games and financial accounts and store them in a password manager to generate strong, unique passwords for each app.
- Unlimited password storage
- Secure sharing
- Password health reports
- Auto-fill and emergency access
- Data breach monitoring to alert you if your credentials have been exposed
- A Security Dashboard with tools like the Data Breach Scanner and Password Health Checker to identify weak, reused, or compromised passwords
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c) Consider using a separate email address for gaming accounts. Sometimes, it’s best to create various email aliases so that you don’t have to worry about all your info getting taken in a data breach. An email alias address is a great way for you to stop receiving constant spam mail by simply deleting the email alias address.
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2) Manage app permissions carefully
Review and revoke unnecessary permissions for each game in your device settings.
- On iPhone, disable tracking for all apps in Settings → Privacy & Security → Tracking → Toggle off next to where it says Allow Apps to Request to Track.
- On Android, limit app access in Settings → Security and Privacy → Permissions Manager. Then, limit access by clicking on permissions such as location, tapping on the app, and tapping “Don’t allow.” (Settings may vary depending on your Android phone’s manufacturer ).
3) Keep software updated
Install all OS and app updates promptly. Many malware attacks exploit known flaws in outdated software. Check out how to update all your devices and keep them safe by clicking here.
4) Use security tools like strong antivirus software and a VPN
a) Consider using security tools such as strong antivirus software to protect against malicious apps and pop-ups. Unfortunately, malware can be embedded in mobile games and apps you download, especially if they come from third-party app stores or shady sources. That’s why having strong antivirus protection is essential. It not only shields your device, but also helps block malicious links and suspicious activity embedded in these apps. The best way to safeguard yourself from malicious links that install malware, potentially accessing your private information, is to have strong antivirus software installed on all your devices. This protection can also alert you to phishing emails and ransomware scams, keeping your personal information and digital assets safe.
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- Smart firewall and phishing protection
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- Includes real-time threat protection, smart firewall and phishing protection to guard against online attacks
b) A VPN like ExpressVPN or Surfshark can help hide your IP address and block trackers, which is particularly beneficial for those who like to play games on their phones. These VPNs can potentially lower ping and reduce latency, resulting in a smoother gaming experience.
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5) Be cautious with in-app purchases and pop-ups
- Be wary of tricky layouts designed to encourage accidental purchases.
- Avoid clicking on ads or pop-ups within the games, as they may lead to potentially harmful websites.
6) Download from trusted sources
- Only install games from official app stores like Google Play or Apple App Store.
- Check reviews and ratings before downloading any new game.
- Never sideload APKs or apps from unknown websites.
Related Links:
- Best games to sharpen your mind
- Play my Crossword: Board Games
- Play my Memory Game: Explore the Countryside
Kurt’s key takeaways
Free mobile games themselves won’t hack your bank account, but the ecosystem around them, ads, trackers, and permissions, can chip away at your privacy and security. By separating your gaming from your sensitive accounts, limiting app permissions, keeping your software updated, and sticking to trusted sources, you can reduce your risk while still having fun.
What additional security measures do you think game developers should implement to protect players? Let us know in the comments below.
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