What Information Does Your Game Store Really Collect?

Game stores gather all kinds of details about you — often without you even realizing it. And it’s not just when you visit a store in person. They collect information through websites, mobile apps, and loyalty programs. That could include your email address, location, purchase history — even the specific time of day you usually play.

Wondering exactly what they are tracking? Here is a closer look at the types of information they collect, why they collect it, how transparent they are about it, and what steps you can take to better protect your privacy. Plus, uncover what Epic Games knows about its users — and how you can stay in control. Prefer not to share personal information while gaming? Game cards from Recharge are a handy and safe way to keep things private.

What Do Game Stores Keep Track Of?

Whether you are purchasing a new release, using a mobile app, or simply signing in to your account, game stores often monitor your activity closely. Common types of data they collect include:

• Your email address, date of birth, and other personal information
• Which games you have purchased or played
• How frequently — and at what time — you play
• Your preferred gaming platform or genres
• Your location, especially through mobile apps
• Connected accounts such as Xbox, PlayStation, or Steam

They use this data to understand your habits and tailor your experience — such as recommending games you are more likely to enjoy.

Why Do Game Stores Collect Your Data?

In many cases, the goal is to enhance your experience. You may receive more personalized recommendations, better offers, or have your gameplay progress saved across sessions. But there are other reasons as well, including:

• Marketing and advertising
• Customer support and service improvements
• Surveys, analytics, and research
• Sharing data with third-party companies

Often, these practices are tied to loyalty programs. You may earn discounts or rewards points  —  but in return, you are allowing companies to monitor your behaviour. It’s not necessarily a bad trade-off, but it’s worth knowing what you are agreeing to. Always read the privacy policy carefully before signing up for anything.

How Transparent Are Game Stores About Their Policies?

In most cases, not very. If you are curious about what data is being collected or how it’s used, you usually have to sift through lengthy and complex privacy policies. Only a few platforms offer a straightforward dashboard where you can view, manage, or delete your personal information.

As a result, many gamers are unaware of what is happening behind the scenes. That is why it’s helpful to understand your digital footprint and take some control over your own data.

Epic Games: What the Platform Knows About You

Epic Games is a popular choice for many players, but it tracks much more than just your purchase history. The company also monitors how you use the platform, which devices you are on, and more. For instance, Epic may collect:

• The games you play and how often
• Your friends list and how you interact with others
• Your payment methods
• Your IP address and the devices you have used
• In some cases, what other games are installed on your computer

This data is used for a variety of purposes, from enhancing security and offering technical support to recommending content and displaying targeted advertisements.

Does Epic Games Monitor Your Activity?

Yes, it does. Through your account, browser cookies, and the Epic Games Launcher, the company tracks your usage. While some of this is meant to improve your experience, it also means Epic builds a fairly detailed profile of your habits. Fortunately, you can limit a fair amount of this tracking by adjusting your privacy settings.

Can Other People See Your Games or Friends List?

Not by default. Your game library, friends list, and online status are private unless you choose to share them. You can manage these settings in your Epic account at any time.

What Is a ‘Cabined Account’?

This is Epic’s approach to safeguarding younger users. If you are under a certain age, your account will be restricted until a parent or guardian provides consent. Some features will be turned off by default, such as:

• Chat functions
• Adding friends
• Making purchases
• Playing certain multiplayer games

Once consent is granted — sometimes with added verification — the account can be upgraded to full access.

Does Epic Ask for Your Age?

Yes, during the sign-up process. If you are under 13 — or under 16, depending on your region — you’ll be given a cabined account automatically. Epic typically does not request highly sensitive information such as a social insurance number. If you do receive a request like that, make sure it’s legitimate and sent through a secure channel.

Can Epic See What Games Are Already Installed on Your Computer?

Yes, the Epic Games Launcher can scan your system to check for existing games. This usually happens when you first install the launcher or connect your account. It helps Epic determine whether your device meets the requirements for certain games.

How Secure Is Your Epic Account?

Epic provides strong security features, including two-factor authentication. You should always use a strong, unique password and avoid clicking on suspicious links in emails or messages. Most security issues arise from simple mistakes.

Can You Delete Your Epic Account?

Yes, deleting your account is straightforward through the settings menu. However, once deleted, it cannot be recovered. You’ll lose all your data, purchases, and progress. Epic will erase everything, except for what they are legally required to keep.

Prefer Not to Share Personal Data? Use a Game card

Looking to purchase games without sharing your personal details? Game cards are a smart way to keep things private. It’s also a good idea to use a separate email address dedicated to your gaming accounts.

At Recharge, you can buy game cards for PlayStation, Steam, Xbox, and other platforms — without needing to share your banking details or create an account. You’ll receive the code by email instantly.

Explore the full selection of game cards at Recharge

Take Control of Your Privacy as a Gamer

You don’t need to be a tech expert to take better care of your personal data. These simple steps can go a long way:

• Use strong, unique passwords
• Turn on two-factor authentication wherever possible
• Avoid linking accounts unless it’s necessary
• Review your privacy settings regularly
• Set up a separate email account for gaming
• Pay with a game card if you prefer to stay anonymous

You Decide What You Share

Gaming should be fun — but protecting your privacy matters, too. Once you understand what kind of data game stores are collecting, you can make smarter decisions. Read the fine print, adjust your settings, and choose payment options that don’t require giving away everything.

With a game card from Recharge, you can enjoy your games while keeping control over your personal information.