DarkOrbit – any risks of getting a virus?
Dark Orbit is an online, multi-player game that currently has over 44 million players. Dark Orbit was released in 2006, by BigPointGames, and allows users to play for free. However, because players are allowed to play this game free of cost, many users fear that the game may infect their computer with a computer virus or malware.
Does Dark Orbit Contain a Computer Virus?
Dark Orbit allows gamers to register and begin playing, without downloading or installing software. Additionally, Dark Orbit offers players a “Safe Harbor Policy”, which states that the BigPointGames will never sell or share the personal information that players provide, if they simply “opt-out” of sharing such information. Bigpoint Inc. also promises to inform players as to why they need to provide certain personal information, what exactly will be done with this information, and the ability to access, delete, and edit all personal information.
However, when a player looks at Bigpoint Inc.’s privacy policy, it appears that the company does take it upon themselves to collect information other than what players knowingly provide, unless they have thoroughly read the company’s policies. A player’s IP address, browser type, operating system, and internet browsing activities may be monitored by the company. Fortunately, Bigpoint Inc. only uses this information to improve their sites, games, and provide users with the best experience possible.
According to the terms and conditions, privacy policy, and safe harbor policy, Dark Orbit promises to keep player’s information safe. Nowhere within these policies, does Dark Orbit say that players are knowingly infected or even at risk of receiving a computer virus or spyware. Therefore, according to the makers of the game, players can rest assured that their personal information and computer are completely safe.
Have Dark Orbit Users Gotten Viruses from Playing the Game in the Past?
There are a few cases of Dark Orbit players that have believed their computer was infected with a virus due to the game. However, because most internet users frequently download music, games, and other programs, as well as visit numerous websites daily, it is difficult to determine exactly where a virus came from.
Dark Orbit players, as well as all internet users, should be sure to protect themselves with an effective anti-virus, that can be used to scan, quarantine, and eliminate threats. Fortunately, Dark Orbit is not likely to be the cause of these threats, but it is always better to protect oneself, than to lose your computer to a computer virus.