A Data Privacy Guide for Gamers in 2025

Ever considered the cost of sharing your data every time you log in to play? Chances are, you are sharing more than you bargained for. The rise of online gaming, cross-platform accounts, social features, and in-game purchases has turned gaming into a data-sharing portal. With every click, purchase, and interaction, your information is being collected and stored in massive data pools.

This matters because your name, email, payment details, gaming habits, voice chat activity, and even your location leave behind a data trail. It is imperative that, whether you are on a console, PC, mobile phone, or a crypto-based platform, you should understand how your data is used and how to protect it.

Crypto-Based Gaming 

When it comes to privacy protection, blockchain does it best which is why many gaming developers have incorporated it into their platforms. One such platform is crypto casinos. These online platforms allow players to make deposits and withdrawals using cryptocurrencies without having to share personally identifiable details like IDs, home addresses, or bank details. A crypto wallet is used instead. Crypto casinos without verification requirements are popular among gamers who value privacy. 

Studies reveal that in 2024 alone, people placed over $81 billion worth of bets on crypto casinos. It’s also documented that many users access crypto gambling sites through methods like VPNs, and that some platforms have minimal Know Your Customer (KYC) procedures. However, to get the optimal experience, it is best to only choose reputable platforms that have great reviews. Also, by dedicating a separate wallet solely for your gaming activity and using a strong password, you are adding layers to your security. Keeping up with the crypto trends will also help curb any risks that might be associated.

Platforms at Risk: Consoles, Mobile Games, PC, and Crypto Casinos 

As long as data is collected, stored, and can be accessed over the internet, it is at risk of privacy breaches. This is why consoles like the PlayStation 5, which are ever improving, collect only essential data. In fact, that is the global data privacy standard now. Essentials only. 

A study in 2023 found that 90% of top mobile games shared users’ data with advertisers. PC games aren’t exempt from this. Many of them collect information about your computer so as to improve the gaming experience. But that also comes with its security risks, as any breach in the gaming software could expose your PC. Even crypto casinos with their no-KYC advantage can still be targets for scams, or if you have weak wallet protection. Ultimately, the risk is inevitable. What matters is that gamers educate themselves on the subject and take proactive measures to stay protected. 

PS5 and “Always-Online” Games 

In recent times, more and more games need to be connected to the Internet at all times, especially on the PS5. Prime examples of such games include Gran Turismo 7, Helldivers 2, and Suicide Squad: Kill the Justice League. According to developers, the reason for the round-the-clock internet connection is to enforce anti-cheat systems and to also deliver updates seamlessly instead of relying on the gamer to manually update. By being “always online,” these games are always sending and receiving data, some of which might include your playtime, voice chats, and even background activity. If the servers they communicate with are not properly secured, there could be security breaches that could put you at risk. 

In 2023, attackers reportedly gained access to Ubisoft for 48 hours and tried to extract over 900 GB of data, including personal information from Rainbow Six Siege players. Although the company was able to restrict access, it’s a good reminder to check your settings and be careful about what’s being shared, because you might be giving away more than you think.

What Game Developers & Publishers Collect

Game companies gather a lot of information. When you sign up, they ask for names, emails, and payment details. As you play, they record your progress, choices, and how you use the game. On top of that, they track technical details like your IP address and device type. This data may be used for advertisement placement or to gauge what aspects of a game need improvement. In a survey conducted by PlayFab, as many as 86% of the gamers stated that they have no control over their data usage. Despite this, most companies have started to proclaim that they use many privacy laws like the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) of the European Union, but it is still not guaranteed that your information will not leak.

How to Tell If Your Data Is at Risk

If you start seeing suspicious activity like password reset emails you didn’t request, or logins from places you’ve never been, your gaming account might be compromised. Getting more spam or strange messages is another sign. In 2023, Genshin Impact players were hit by scammers who accessed their accounts and used their artworks to make money in illegal ways.

If you notice that your game or devices become unreasonably slow or crash unexpectedly, it might be a result of hidden software trying to collect your data. These are all reasons to take a closer look at your security. 

What You Can Do to Protect Your Data on the Platform

Protecting your data is not rocket science. You don’t even need to be a tech expert to ensure your privacy. It all begins with checking your privacy settings. On the PS5, for example, you have the option of deciding who gets to see your activity or message you. By using strong, unique passwords (which can be kept safe using a password manager), you’re tightening your security. It is also wise to always turn on any two-factor authentication (2FA) where possible if you are concerned about your privacy. You also have to watch the accounts that you link to your games because some third-party apps or websites are known to take more than what they require. Also, you should keep your games and system updated to guard against new threats. Lastly, while it might not be fun, read through the privacy policies to spot anything suspicious, such as data sharing with too many partners.

The Future of Data Protection in Gaming

The gaming industry will invest more funds and technology in privacy tools as time goes on, as companies are starting to offer options that give users more control over their information and how much can be collected. New features on platforms like Steam and Xbox, for instance, provide players with the option to decline some data tracking functions. Game developers globally are also working on decentralization so that players can prove their identity without revealing any personal information. In the same regard, with the advancement in AI and virtual reality playing in the games, there will be a need to protect the data.