Pokémon Go Privacy and Security Matters!
Pokémon Go game has become so popular in the past few weeks after being launched early this month. According to Recode, technology, and media news website, Pokémon Go has an average of 9.5 million users actively using the game on the daily basis.
With that said in mind and the growing demand on the mobile app, privacy and security of the users have to be considered heavily. Here we’d like to share with you few tips on how to use the game while keeping you safe and secure with the least minimal impact.
Make sure that you’re downloading the app from a trusted source and not a third party to ensure your safety and security i.e. Google Play
With the high demand on the application many third party sources have made the application downloadable from their sites. This could introduce malware and viruses without the users’ knowledge.
Protect your privacy while playing the Pokémon Go
As the application requires access to your GPS location along with your data connection, privacy can be easily invaded. However, below are few things you could adjust while playing to minimize the risk.
- Don’t use your personal Gmail account to log in. This links your personal information on the account including your location and the game activity. Instead, you can use a fake account for that matter.
- Make sure your application is always updated with all the security patches on a regular basis.
Beware of the Pokémon Go-themed Scams
Beware of malicious apps on Google Play store. Researchers from popular firm ESET have spotted at least three fake Pokémon Go apps. One of which titled “Pokémon Go Ultimate” has posed the biggest threat to Android users according to the research.
Beware of Pokécoins phishing scams. Several sites have been available requesting personal information from individuals in return for gaining Pokécoins and other powerups.
Don’t play the game while biking, driving or even walking
Some accidents have been recently reported and all over the Internet due to people getting distracted with the game while driving.
Getting distracted by the game while driving, biking or even walking could put others’ lives in danger.
Note that if you are drawn to an area that is dangerous or restricted, you can report it to the game’s developer who will consider removing it from the game.
Keep others privacy into consideration
Don’t get carried away with your enthusiasm to Pokémon hunt. Such behavior may lead to several consequences such as privacy invasion i.e. consider your time and place while playing the game.
Review access permission while using the app
The application asks for permission to access your location data, photo library, media files on the device, contacts, and camera. Location data is the only thing you need to allow to play this game. This option will let you play without augmented reality. So if you want to have augmented reality, then you will need to allow the camera as well.
Sources:
http://www.recode.net/2016/7/13/12181614/pokemon-go-number-active-users
http://www.welivesecurity.com/2016/07/15/pokemon-go-hype-first-lockscreen-tries-catch-trend/