This article explores the potential security risks of shared devices and offers practical advice to protect your account.
Guest blogger danisoff is a member of the EA Community Superuser Program.
Shared Devices - Shared Risk
In the age of digital entertainment gaming has evolved into a mainstream activity that spans generations and demographics. Whether you're logging into Battlefield or exploring the vast worlds of Star Wars, your gaming account is more than just a online account. In many ways it has become a digital extension of your identity by holding the progress and personal data that shape your gaming experience. For many players, especially those using shared devices this digital footprint is at risk.
Why Shared Devices Are Vulnerable
When multiple people have access to the same computer or console, the chances of accidental or malicious breaches increase dramatically. Even if the people you share your device with are trustworthy, mistakes happen. A child might click on a phishing email. A visiting friend might unknowingly install malware. Or you might forget to log out, leaving your account open to unintended use.
Key vulnerabilities include:
- Saved passwords and auto login features
- Unsecured browsers storing cookies and sessions
- Physical access to stored credentials
- Multiple users with different habits and awareness levels
Each of these factors can contribute to account compromise, identity theft, or even financial loss.
Steps to Make Your Account More Secure on Shared Devices
Auto Login
Auto login might feel like a blessing especially if you're in a rush to jump into a game session. But on shared devices, it becomes one of the biggest liabilities. Anyone with access can enter your account without your permission, your session becomes an easy target for hijacking, and your payment methods can be accessed by others.
To stay safe, it’s best to disable auto login for all sensitive accounts and rely on a password manager to store your credentials.
Logging Out Isn’t Optional
It's easy to forget especially after a long gaming session, but logging out should be as routine as shutting down the computer. To stay secure, always log out manually, clear your browser cache and cookies, and avoid using the “Remember me” option on shared devices.
Forgetting to log out even once can open the door to unauthorized activity, unwanted purchases, and other risks.
Enable Two-Factor Authentication (2FA)
Two-Factor Authentication is your first and strongest line of defense. Even if someone gains access to your password, they can’t log in without the secondary code. Whenever possible, use an authenticator app instead of SMS for two-factor authentication. Apps like Google Authenticator and Microsoft Authenticator generate codes offline, making them more secure and less vulnerable to interception.
How to enable two-factor authentication on your EA account
Review Saved Credentials and Payment Info
If you've ever clicked "Save payment details for next time", you're not alone. But on shared devices, this can be risky. Anyone with access to the device could potentially make purchases using your saved payment information, putting both your finances and personal data at risk. What feels like a small convenience can quickly turn into a serious security vulnerability.
Removing stored payment methods on account is always a good idea in situations like this.
Enable Parental Controls or Admin Restrictions
If kids are using the same machine, especially younger ones enabling parental controls is essential. You can restrict software installation, block access to certain websites or downloads, and set time limits for device use.
Parental Controls on your EA account
Beware of Malware and Download Risks
Shared devices often become dumping grounds for random downloads, including games, files, mods, and patches. Some of these files can be infected with malware, putting the entire system at risk.
To stay safe only download from verified sources, keep your antivirus software active and up to date, and avoid installing browser extensions you don’t recognize or need. It’s also important to make regular scans a habit, using Windows Defender or a trusted third-party antivirus.
Monitor Login History and Active Sessions
EA and many other platforms allow you to view recent login locations, devices, and session information, it’s a feature you should use regularly.
If you notice any suspicious activity, it’s wise to log out from all sessions immediately. You can also enable notifications to alert you whenever a new login is detected from an unknown location, helping you stay on top of your account’s security at all times.
Shared Devices Require Shared Responsibility
Security isn’t just about keeping the bad guys out. It’s about building a routine that protects your identity, your purchases, and your reputation online. If you’re using a shared device, you don’t need to give up your gaming life. By taking the time to set up proper safeguards, you’re not just protecting your own account. You’re also helping create a safer digital environment for everyone who logs into that device after you.
