Can game companies track what I do online?

Gaming’s a great way to unwind, but there’s often more going on behind the scenes than you’d expect. Many game companies are actively tracking your behaviour – not just while you’re gaming, but while you’re browsing the web too. They gather detailed data, including how you play and even what you do outside the game.

Delve into how it all works – why game companies collect this data, what kind of information they’re gathering, what your rights are, and most importantly, how you can protect your privacy. The first simple step? Use prepaid game cards from Recharge.

Wondering what game platforms really know about you? Read: Is Your Gaming Data Safe? What Platforms Know About You.

What Do Game Companies Actually Know About Me?

It’s more than just your in-game progress. Game companies track data like:

• How long and how often you play
• Which levels you complete
• What in-game purchases you make
• How you react in certain game situations

They collect this information through cookies, tracking pixels, and your account details. But it doesn’t stop there. If you’ve linked your game account to platforms like Facebook, Google, or Xbox, you might be giving away more than you realise – like your browsing habits, interests, and social media activity. This is called cross-platform tracking.

This information is used to personalise ads – and sometimes even to change how the game itself reacts to you based on what you do outside of it. Naturally, this raises concerns about just how private your gaming really is.

Why Do Game Companies Collect All This Data?

Generally, there are two main reasons:

1. Optimisation: game developers want to know when players quit or get frustrated. It helps them improve the experience and fix bugs.
2. Commercial Interests: they also use your data for targeted ads or perfectly timed in-game offers – like skins, weapons, or new levels. These offers are often so personal that you don’t even notice you’re being sold to.

Even if you think you’re not sharing much, having your accounts linked across different platforms can quietly share a surprising amount of data.

That’s why it’s worth keeping an eye on what you’re sharing –  even if you’re using a prepaid game card.

Can Game Companies Track Me Outside the Game?

Plenty of gamers wonder: can I be tracked when I’m not even playing?

Short answer: yes – to a certain extent. If your gaming account is connected to other services (like Google or social media), or if you’re logged in to their website, they can continue tracking what you’re doing online.

This kind of tracking is part of broader online profiling, which logs not only how you play, but also your general online preferences. Your browsing history can be picked up through cookies and scripts – and going incognito doesn’t make you invisible either.

Does Incognito Mode Protect Me from Tracking?

Not completely. Incognito mode only stops your browser from saving things like history and cookies on your own device. Game companies, internet providers, advertisers, and network admins can still track what you’re doing.

If you’re gaming on mobile data or using a VPN, your IP address is hidden, which gives you a bit more privacy. But some games or browser extensions might still be collecting data – especially if you’ve linked accounts.

Can My Employer See What I’m Doing?

If you’re gaming or browsing at work (or on a work network), then yes – network administrators could technically see what you’re doing. Your browser history doesn’t clear itself, and unless you use a VPN or manually wipe your activity, it may be accessible.

People often ask: is it legal for an employer to access my webcam or audio? And the answer, generally, is no – not without your consent. Employers must have a legitimate reason and get your permission before doing anything like that – otherwise, it could violate privacy laws.

That said, anything you post publicly – like on social media – can still be seen, even by your employer. So if you’re concerned, it’s worth double-checking your privacy settings.

Can Game Companies Use My Webcam?

Technically, it’s possible – but it’s extremely rare. Gaining access to your webcam or mic without permission is risky and illegal in most cases. It usually only happens through malware or dodgy third-party software.

If you’re frequently downloading new games or using lesser-known platforms, stay alert. Covering your webcam when you’re not using it is a small habit that can go a long way in protecting your privacy.

How Can I Protect My Game Data Privacy?

Here are a few simple ways to help safeguard your game data:

• Limit account connections

Avoid linking your game accounts with other platforms. The fewer connections, the less data gets shared.

• Use a separate email address for gaming

Keeping your gaming identity separate from your personal one helps protect your privacy. Check out our article on why you should use separate email addresses.

• Read the privacy policy

It’s boring, but important. Look for things like ‘third-party sharing’ or ‘data usage’ so you know where your data is going.

• Use a VPN

A VPN hides your IP address and encrypts your connection – handy for gaming on public Wi-Fi or when you’re on the go.

• Pay with prepaid game cards

Skip sharing your bank or credit card details. Prepaid game cards from Recharge let you make purchases securely and anonymously, keeping your personal information safe.

What Does the Law Say About Data Collection in Games?

In Canada, your personal data is protected under the Personal Information Protection and Electronic Documents Act (PIPEDA). Game companies are required to inform you about what data they’re collecting, why they’re collecting it, and they must get your clear consent.

But let’s be real – most people agree to these without reading the fine print. That means you may not always know exactly what you’ve allowed them to collect.

You’re in Control of What You Share

Whether you’re gaming every day or just casually, your privacy still matters. You may not know every bit of data being collected, but you can still take control and make smarter choices about what you share.

One of the simplest ways is by using prepaid game cards from Recharge. They help you manage your spending and protect your privacy – no need to give out your banking details.

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