Nothing beats the Switch when it comes to on-the-go and family-friendly gaming. Sadly, its popularity also attracts hackers determined to ruin the fun by stealing your data or messing with your online matches. Want to know what you can do to stop them? Then read on!
Have a Strong Password for your Nintendo Account
Associating a Nintendo account with your Switch unlocks the eShop, enables online play with friends, and grants access to cloud saves. However, that account can be compromised in a matter of seconds if you use a weak or duplicate password.
A hacked account can be misused in many ways. The hacker might buy in-game money or make eShop purchases using a linked bank or online payment accounts. Worse yet, hackers could use your real-world and banking details to commit identity theft or financial fraud.
The good news? You can prevent this by using a long, unique password for your Nintendo account. In fact, the same goes for all your other important accounts. However, since creating and managing strong passwords for each one takes time, a password manager can make the process easier. This tool generates complex passwords, securely stores them on remote servers, and even lets you share them safely with family or friends when needed.
It can be difficult to choose the best password manager because the pros and cons of every manager depend on your needs. But if you want to keep your Nintendo account safe, pick a manager that has strong encryption, breach monitoring, and cross-platform compatibility.
Turn on Two-Step Verification
Sadly, in case Nintendo gets hacked, a password alone won’t be enough to protect your account. And if you think Nintendo can’t be hacked, remember the 2020 case. Details of more than 300,000 accounts were exposed, damaging Nintendo’s reputation and user safety.
The best course of action in these situations is to enable two-step verification in the account settings. This will link the account to an authenticator app and require you to enter a security code when signing into the account from an unfamiliar device or location. Hackers who stole your information won’t be able to enter the code, and you will be warned that your account is at risk, giving you time to change your password.
Keep Games Updated
While Nintendo invests heavily in the Switch’s security, it’s not immune from attacks. Previously, several first-party games contained an exploit known as ENLBufferPwn, which allowed unauthorized access and remote code execution. The vulnerability was promptly patched, but users who didn’t update their games immediately remained at risk.
The Switch itself receives automatic updates you can’t turn off. However, updates for individual games can be disabled, so make sure you don’t accidentally turn them off. Keeping them updated ensures your games remain protected from potential exploits and security vulnerabilities.
Connect Online Safely
Portability is a major part of the Switch’s appeal. However, the experience of playing on the go can vary depending on your connection. Public networks in cafes, airports, and other locations may seem like a convenient internet source, but they can actually expose your online traffic to hackers. This is crucial to understand because public networks are easily compromised and monitored by cybercriminals.
But while public networks are one threat, don’t overlook other risks tied to your online presence while playing. For example, even if you’re dominating the game from home, a particularly salty opponent could trace your IP address and crash your connection with a DDoS attack.
A Nintendo Switch VPN is the solution to both problems. It encrypts your internet connection and hides your IP address so no one can steal your data or end your winning streak through underhanded tactics.
Stay Away from Mods and Hacks
Modding or hacking a Switch allows you to run homebrew software and even play pirated games. While this may sound tempting, unauthorized software can contain malicious code that compromises your device. This means that even if you manage to install a working game, connecting online risks getting your account permanently banned. In the end, it’s just not worth it.
Your Switch Is Now Protected
Your Nintendo Switch is a well-protected gadget, but even so, you should exercise caution when using it online. You never know when a hacker might target you. Use a password manager, turn on 2FA and automatic game updates, and VPN to encrypt your traffic. These actions will help you to keep your personal information and Switch safe.
