Facebook games have become extremely popular over the past decade, with millions of people playing games through the social media platform every day. However, concerns have been raised about the safety and privacy risks of playing Facebook games. This article will examine the potential dangers and provide recommendations on how to play Facebook games more safely.
What are the risks of playing games on Facebook?
Here are some of the main risks and safety issues to be aware of when playing games on Facebook:
- Privacy risks – Games may access personal data from your Facebook profile, including your name, profile picture, friends list, and sometimes email address and phone number. This data could potentially be shared with third parties without your knowledge.
- Security risks – Clicking links or downloading files from untrustworthy games can expose your device to malware, viruses, or hacking.
- Scams and spam – Low quality games may try to trick users into signing up for subscriptions, purchasing coins/lives, or sharing the game to spam your friends.
- Inappropriate content – Some games have adult content, violence, or other material that may be inappropriate for younger users.
- Addictiveness – Games encourage repeated play through rewards and points schemes. This could become time-consuming or addictive.
- In-app purchases – “Free” games often push users to purchase coins, extra lives, boosts, etc. This could lead to unexpected costs.
While most Facebook games are safe when used responsibly, it’s important to be cautious and use proper security measures.
Protecting your privacy when playing Facebook games
Here are some tips to help safeguard your privacy:
- Review the game’s access permissions. Make sure you are comfortable with the profile info the app can view.
- Avoid connecting your Facebook account to unfamiliar, untrustworthy games.
- Be wary of games that promise rewards for sharing access with your friends.
- Check a game’s privacy policy to understand how your data may be used.
- Adjust your Facebook privacy settings to limit the info visible to apps.
- Never give personal info like your email or phone number to a game unless absolutely necessary.
Avoiding security risks with Facebook games
To keep your device and information safe:
- Install antivirus software and keep it updated.
- Don’t click questionable links, ads, or “Download” buttons in games.
- Beware of “free download” offers—they are often malware scams.
- Use strong passwords and don’t share logins across sites.
- Watch for signs of a hacked account, like strange posts or messages.
- Disable permissions for unused games in your Facebook settings.
Spotting Facebook game scams and spam
Watch out for these common shady practices:
- “Free” games that push in-app purchases
- Games that require subscriptions after a free trial
- Games that promise “rewards” for sharing or liking the app
- Games that claim you “won” something but require a credit card
- Sudden difficulty spikes that push you to buy boosts/coins
A good rule of thumb is to avoid any games that seem focused on making money rather than providing entertainment.
How to choose safer, higher quality games
Look at these factors when deciding which games to play:
- Reputation – Choose established games from well-known developers.
- Ratings and reviews – Search for in-depth reviews and player feedback.
- Number of users – Games with more users tend to be safer and more legitimate.
- Permissions – Avoid games that ask for unnecessary profile access.
- Protections – See if the game has parental controls, reporting systems, etc.
Setting limits to prevent addictive gameplay
It’s easy to lose track of time playing Facebook games. Set reasonable limits with these strategies:
- Restrict play to a set time of day, such as only after finishing work.
- Set a timer while playing and stop when time is up.
- Schedule breaks for meals, chores, exercise, and socializing.
- Delete games that become compulsive or impact other parts of your life.
Moderation and self-control are key to ensuring gaming remains an enjoyable hobby, not a harmful habit.
Paying safely when making in-app purchases
If you do opt to make in-app purchases, take these precautions:
- Link a secondary or prepaid card instead of your primary bank card.
- Make purchases only through the official game store, not third-party sellers.
- Track your spending by checking statements regularly.
- Disable in-app purchases when letting children play.
- Contact Facebook support if you encounter unauthorized charges.
Setting a strict budget can help curb overspending. Think carefully before buying virtual items with real money.
Warning signs a game may not be safe
Watch for these red flags that indicate a game could be untrustworthy or dangerous:
- Asks for personal information like your email or phone number
- Pushes you to spam or share the game beyond your friends
- Tries accessing contacts, photos, or other private data
- Causes your device to slow down or drain battery quickly
- Sends you unsolicited messages or friend requests
- Requires an unexplained verification process
- Redirects you to sketchy external websites
When in doubt, do some research on the developer, read reviews, check websites like PCMag or Common Sense Media, or avoid the game altogether if it seems risky.
What to do if you have safety concerns
If you suspect a game is unsafe, misusing your data, or causing other issues, take these steps:
- Quit the app immediately and revoke its permissions in your Facebook settings.
- Run antivirus scans to check for anything suspicious.
- Change your Facebook password if you think your account may be compromised.
- Contact the game developer to report issues or request they delete your data.
- Report the app to Facebook through their reporting tools.
- Leave negative reviews to warn other players.
- Consider deleting the app altogether and advising friends/family to do the same.
Conclusion
Facebook games can be great fun when approached carefully. Protect yourself by being selective about which games you play, limiting access permissions, using secure payment methods, watching for red flags, and immediately reporting any concerns. Prioritizing fun over excessive monetization or data collection will lead to happier, safer gameplay experiences.