Protecting online games against cheating

ABSTRACT

We present a technique to prevent cheating in online-games. Our approach prevents both, modification of game-clients, and access to sensitive information in the game-clients' memory. It allows game-servers to detect cheating attempts. The mechanisms in our solution are orthogonal to the game-related mechanisms, allowing to clearly separate security-related aspects from the game design. In this way the basic game is design does not have to be influenced by considerations about cheating and security.

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INDEX TERMS

Primary Classification:
  K. Computing Milieux
  K.8 PERSONAL COMPUTING
      K.8.0 General
          Subjects: Games

Additional Classification:
  K. Computing Milieux
  K.6 MANAGEMENT OF COMPUTING AND INFORMATION SYSTEMS
      K.6.5 Security and Protection (D.4.6, K.4.2)
          Subjects: Unauthorized access (e.g., hacking, phreaking)

General Terms:
Design, Security