A recent data breach has rocked Steam, the popular gaming platform by Valve. Reports indicate that information from 89 million accounts has surfaced on the dark web, with hackers selling it for $5,000. The data includes sensitive details like one-time passwords and phone numbers. At the time of writing, over 30 million users were active on Steam.
So, what should you do if you have a Steam account? First things first: change your password immediately. This is your first line of defense to protect your account and personal information.
Here are a few simple steps to enhance your account security:
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Use a Password Manager: This tool can create complex passwords and remember them for you. It’s an easy way to enhance your security.
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Enable Two-Factor Authentication (2FA): Setting up 2FA with your phone and email adds an extra layer of protection. While Steam doesn’t allow for hardware keys, their internal 2FA is your best option.
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Monitor for Suspicious Activity: Check your email for any unexpected notifications related to your account. If you see any one-time password text messages that you didn’t request, ignore them and change your password again.
- Stay Alert for Phishing Attempts: Be wary of fake offers or messages pretending to be from Steam. Scammers often use such tactics to steal information.
In light of this breach, experts stress the importance of online security. Cybersecurity professionals advise regular password updates and heightened vigilance when it comes to online accounts. A survey by Cybersecurity Ventures estimates that cybercrime could cost the world $10.5 trillion annually by 2025, highlighting how critical it is to safeguard your personal data.
Historical context also shows that data breaches are not new. In 2014, the infamous Target breach compromised 40 million credit and debit cards. These incidents have only escalated, making robust online security measures essential.
Taking these steps will help protect your Steam account and personal data. Stay safe out there!