The Manipulative Mechanics of Online Gaming: How Dark Designs Exploit Players’ Data

Online games use dark designs to collect player data, researchers reveal

Introduction

A study conducted by scientists at Aalto University’s Department of Computer Science has shed light on potentially questionable data collection practices in online games. The researchers also uncovered misconceptions and concerns about privacy among players, prompting calls for improved privacy protections in the gaming industry.

The Growing Influence of Online Gaming

The online gaming industry is a booming market, with an estimated worth of $193 billion, nearly double the size of the film and music industries combined. With approximately three billion gamers worldwide, online gaming has become a significant part of today’s digital landscape.

Online gaming has the potential to enhance well-being and foster social connections. However, the study warns that privacy and awareness issues could potentially outweigh these benefits and cause real harm to gamers.

The Dark Designs of Data Collection

The study reveals instances of online games using “dark design”—manipulative interface decisions that coax players into taking actions they may not have otherwise chosen. These design techniques can facilitate the collection of player data and encourage users to integrate their social media accounts or share data with third parties.

While players may be unaware of the extent to which their data is being collected, the study raises concerns about the lack of transparency in data practices. Online games often fail to inform players about data sharing or disclose that chat-based conversations may be disclosed to third parties.

Privacy Concerns and Mitigation Strategies

The researchers found that players, particularly female players, are highly impacted by privacy concerns. Female players often feel the need to conceal their gender while playing by using various avatars or avoiding voice conversations with other players.

To address these issues, the study proposes several solutions, including the adoption of more transparent approaches to data collection. Gaming companies should strive to protect players’ privacy, ensure informed consent for data collection, and empower players to exercise their autonomy by providing options to opt out of invasive data collection.

Players, too, can take steps to protect their privacy. The study highlights some practical strategies that players already employ, such as using text chats instead of voice chats and avoiding linking their social media accounts to games unless absolutely necessary.

Towards a Safer and More Privacy-Focused Gaming Industry

The gaming industry has faced increased scrutiny in recent years, not only due to privacy concerns but also issues of online harassment and burnout culture. As the push for more tech regulation gains momentum in the EU and the US, addressing privacy concerns should be a priority for the industry.

In conclusion, while online gaming offers many benefits, it is crucial to address the privacy and data collection practices that may put players at risk. Gaming companies must provide transparent information to players, obtain informed consent for data collection, and implement measures to protect players’ privacy and safety. Similarly, players should be vigilant about their privacy and make informed choices about the data they share while gaming. By prioritizing privacy, the gaming industry can ensure that games remain fun, safe, and enjoyable for everyone.

Source

“Online games use dark designs to collect player data, researchers reveal” (2023, October 27). Retrieved from https://techxplore.com/news/2023-10-online-games-dark-player-reveal.html