Featured article by Calvin Paige, Independent Technology Author
Have you ever noticed when downloading a new app or game that you need to give certain permissions before you can gain access? For example, social networking apps might ask for permission to your email account, your address book, files, and even your camera? Mobile games and apps are now fully integrated, so they need access to a lot of information in order to function. On the flip side, mobile application users are putting their full trust into the hands of developers that their personal information will be kept safe and not be abused. Big Samo offers you your favorite games direct on the web, and there’s no need to download anything or give permission to your personal data. Here are three things that mobile game developers need to have perfected before releasing a new title to consumers.
1. Mobile Game Testing
Does your mobile game work as well on Apple products as it does on Android based systems? What about players who are using old devices that might have different security settings? Even mobile games that appear to be finished and troubleshooted have to be tested ad nauseum to ensure that they are compatible across platforms. This means that you should add in additional time between the moment your game is fully functional until the point in which you are sure that gamers across all mobile platforms can enjoy it.
2. Releasing Timely Patches
Some problems just won’t be known until the game comes out of the testing phase and has a widespread release. Most times, a simple patch can resolve previously unknown security issues, glitches, lagging, and even content errors. The thing with mobile games is that they also need to be updated in order to remain compatible with operating system updates. An outdated mobile game can present a huge risk to users if hackers look for exploits. Keep your mobile game updated and release patches as soon as any sort of security risk becomes known.
3. Investing in Mobile Security
Your mobile game might be highly secure today but that doesn’t mean that your game is going to be secure tomorrow or even the next. Remember that mobile games can have credit card numbers and even player addresses stored indefinitely. You do not want to have to explain how there was a security breach involving your name. Regular security checks will help to ensure that all access points are secure. Realize that the internet is filled with opportunities for enrichment as well as chances for users to have their security breach. Hackers are prone to exploiting mobile games as users grant developers a wide range of permissions.
Test any game that you plan on releasing and making accessible to the public. This includes games that are still in beta version. Don’t wait to address security problems, even if you think that they won’t be noticeable to casual or advanced game users. Developers that mobile game users trust will always get more positive attention, and thus future downloads as well as revenue.
