Gaming
Revealed: Global gaming demand for cheating bots increased 20% this year, study shows
Video game cheating has increased this year, with global searches for bots used to gain an unfair advantage having risen by almost a fifth (18%) over the last year, new study shows.
The findings come as part of the Honest Gamers Study, which analyses global and national search volume data to identify trends around video game cheats, including which franchises and titles are most susceptible to dishonest players – and which hacks prove most popular.
The study, from Caziwoo, found that there’s been a rise in gamers utilising tech to cheat, including bots that allow players to automate tasks via AI to gain a competitive edge over fellow players.
The most popular bots are AimBot, HealBot and TriggerBot – used to improve players’ target acquisition skills, boost their durability and provide aim-assistance respectively, data shows.
Bots like these have long been an issue amongst gamers, with many claiming they ruin the online gaming community and calling for operators to restrict participation to strictly human players, in order to curb the unfair advantage bots give cheating gamers.
However, it seems the use of bots will continue to rise rather than dissipate, with TriggerBot having seen a 13% increase in global search volume over the last year alone.
But it’s not just a rising use of bots that players will need to tackle, as the study also found searches for third-party hack and mod subscription services have increased by 41% over the past five years, as they’re becoming a more mainstream method of cheating.
These third-party subscription services – like WeMod, Codebreaker and Cheat Engine – provide players with a variety of cheat codes, mods and hacks that will give them an advantage across multiple titles, making cheating increasingly accessible.
Some also believe that making cheats more accessible also condones doing so, indicating that gamers who were previously unwilling to cheat may be more tempted to use these subscription services, as the use of hacks and mods becomes more commonplace.
When it comes to why players generally cheat, the study found that it’s gaining an advantage over in-game health factors (such as lifespan or number of lives) that proves most tempting, followed by aim-assistance boosts and increasing in-game finances.
The temptation to cheat also differs by video game franchise and title, with the data revealing Grand Theft Auto is the game series with the highest likelihood of cheating, whilst The Sims, Pokemon and FIFA were also likely to see an influx of dishonest players.
Generally speaking, almost 1 in 10 (8%) of global gamers currently playing the most popular titles use some form of cheating, with in-game mods/hacks proving the most popular, followed by subscription services, and bots.
With video game cheats becoming more accessible to meet this rise in demand, it remains to be seen whether player frustrations around unfair advantages will spike over the next year, and whether gaming providers will put measures in place to prevent this.
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FreezeNova
10-15% Of Gamers In Florida Show Signs Of Gaming Addiction: Here Are 10 Signs Your Kid Is Suffering From It (And How You Can Help)
Recent studies indicate that 10-15% of young gamers in Florida exhibit signs of gaming addiction. These findings underscore the need for early identification of symptoms to prevent negative impacts on children’s mental and physical health. Gaming addiction, if not dealt with, can lead to poor academic performance, social withdrawal, and even health problems.
Marin Cristian-Ovidiu, CEO of FreezeNova, discusses key indicators of gaming addiction and offers practical advice for parents.
Recognizing Early Signs
“Early recognition of gaming addiction is crucial in preventing long-term negative outcomes,” Marin explains. The following signs can help parents identify if their child might be developing an addiction:
Exhaustion and Irritability
Constant tiredness and grumpiness during the day could indicate late-night gaming sessions interfering with sleep.
Gaming Obsession
If gaming dominates your child’s thoughts and conversations, and they plan their day around it while neglecting other responsibilities, it could be a sign of addiction.
Decline in Academic Performance and Lost Interests
A noticeable decline in academic performance or loss of interest in previously enjoyed activities may suggest your child is prioritizing gaming over more important tasks.
Emotional Volatility
Extreme emotional reactions to in-game outcomes, such as uncontrolled anger, known as ‘Gamer Rage’, or intense celebrations, could indicate an unhealthy attachment to gaming.
Physical Strain
Signs of repetitive strain injuries like ‘Gamer’s Thumb’ or ‘Nintendo Neck’ from prolonged screen time are warning signals.
Neglecting Basic Needs
If your child is neglecting basic needs like eating, sleeping, or hygiene to keep playing, gaming has likely taken an unhealthy control over their life.
Creating a Supportive Environment
While video games can be a great source of entertainment and connection, around 70% of people with signs of gaming addiction also experience social disorders. Marin recommends a few tips for building a supportive and open environment for your child.
Teamwork and Setting Boundaries
“Parents and children should work together to create a healthy gaming environment. Gaming addiction requires a holistic approach,” Marin advises. Start by setting clear boundaries on gaming time to ensure there’s room for schoolwork, chores, and quality family time.
Revisit activities your child once loved, like football practice or exploring new hobbies together. It’s vital for your child to take breaks from screens, so create a balanced daily routine that includes homework, chores, exercise and just some gaming time. This allows your child to enjoy their games without neglecting other aspects of their life.
Open Communication
Maintain open communication. Discuss the games your child enjoys and any concerns you might have. By understanding their world, you can work together to find solutions.
Remember, you’re not alone. If you feel overwhelmed, seek professional help from specialists in gaming addiction. Marin concludes, “By working as a team, setting clear boundaries, and fostering open communication, we can help your child develop a healthy relationship with gaming and thrive in all areas of life.”
SYNOT Games has announced that more than 140 of its games have now been officially certified in Brazil.
“We are delighted to announce that more than 140 of our games have now been officially certified in Brazil. This significant achievement allows us to expand our reach and introduce a diverse selection of games to this dynamic market. Brazil represents a key opportunity for growth, and we are committed to delivering exceptional gaming experiences to the Brazilian audience,” the Company said.
“We are thrilled to introduce our portfolio in Brazil, offering innovative and engaging gameplay that promises to captivate and entertain players,” Martina Krajci, CCO at SYNOT Games, said.
Gaming
SPGA Introduces Code of Conduct to Highlight Member Commitment to Compliance and Safety in Social and Promotional Gaming
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Age verification to limit real money play to users 18 and older
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Proper identity verification (Know Your Customer or KYC)
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Location verification of customers
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AML policies to ensure proper transaction monitoring
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