The Gamer’s Guide: How to Secure Your Steam and Epic Games Accounts
Gaming has become a popular pastime and a competitive sport worldwide. With platforms like Steam and Epic Games offering vast libraries of games, it’s crucial to protect your accounts from unauthorized access and ensure your valuable in-game items and personal information remain safe.
Why Securing Your Gaming Accounts Is Important
Your Steam and Epic Games accounts hold much more than just access to games. They often contain personal information, payment details, and rare in-game items that could be targeted by hackers for theft or fraud. Losing access can mean losing your entire digital collection and hours of progress.
Set Strong, Unique Passwords
The first and most basic step towards securing your accounts is choosing strong and unique passwords. Avoid simple or easily guessable passwords like “password123” or “gamer2024.” Instead:
- Use a mix of upper and lowercase letters, numbers, and symbols.
- Make passwords at least 12 characters long.
- Never reuse passwords from other sites or services.
- Consider using a reputable password manager to generate and store passwords safely.
Enable Two-Factor Authentication (2FA)
Two-factor authentication adds an extra layer of security by requiring a second form of verification besides your password. Both Steam and Epic Games support 2FA options:
- Steam Guard: You can enable Steam Guard, which sends a verification code to your mobile app or email whenever you log in from a new device.
- Epic Games 2FA: Epic Games offers 2FA via authenticator apps, email, or SMS verification.
Always enable 2FA to prevent unauthorized access even if someone obtains your password.
Protect Your Gaming Accounts with Virtual Numbers →
Be Wary of Phishing Attempts
Phishing is a common technique used by cybercriminals to trick you into revealing login credentials. To stay safe:
- Never click on suspicious links in emails or messages claiming to be from Steam or Epic Games.
- Verify the sender’s email address carefully.
- Access your accounts only through official websites or apps.
- Do not share your password or verification codes with anyone.
Keep Your Email Account Secure
Your email is often the gateway to resetting your game account password. Ensure your email account is secured with a strong password and 2FA as well. This prevents hackers from taking control of your email and accessing your gaming accounts.
Regularly Monitor Account Activity
Frequently check your account activity and login history for any unusual behavior, such as logins from unknown locations or devices. Both Steam and Epic Games provide these features in your account settings. If you detect suspicious activity, change your password immediately and report the issue to customer support.
Avoid Using Public Wi-Fi for Logging In
Public Wi-Fi networks can be insecure, allowing hackers to intercept your data. Avoid logging into your Steam or Epic Games accounts on public or unsecured Wi-Fi networks. If necessary, use a trusted VPN service to protect your connection.
Use Virtual Phone Numbers for Added Privacy
Registering your accounts with a phone number adds backup recovery options but can raise privacy concerns. Platforms like PVA.One provide virtual phone numbers that allow you to receive SMS codes online without exposing your personal number. This enhances your privacy and keeps your real phone number safe from spam or hacking attempts.
Keep Your Devices and Software Updated
Ensure your computer, mobile device, and gaming platforms have the latest security patches and software updates installed. This protects you from known vulnerabilities that hackers could exploit to gain access.
Securing your Steam and Epic Games accounts is essential to protect your games, personal data, and in-game purchases. By using strong passwords, enabling two-factor authentication, being cautious of phishing, and leveraging tools like virtual phone numbers, you can enjoy your gaming experience with peace of mind.