How to prevent automated scripts in mini-game anti-cheating?

To prevent automated scripts in mini-games and enhance anti-cheating measures, you can implement a combination of techniques:

1. Behavioral Analysis: Monitor player actions for patterns that deviate from normal human behavior, such as unnaturally fast responses or repetitive actions. For example, if a player clicks a button 100 times per second, it’s likely a bot.

2. CAPTCHA or Puzzle Challenges: Introduce simple puzzles or image-based CAPTCHAs during critical actions (e.g., login, rewards collection) to block bots while allowing real players to proceed.

3. Device Fingerprinting: Collect device-specific data (e.g., screen resolution, OS version, browser fingerprints) to detect suspicious or duplicate devices often used by bots.

4. Rate Limiting & Throttling: Restrict the frequency of actions (e.g., login attempts, in-game purchases) per user or IP address to prevent automated abuse.

5. AI-Powered Detection: Use machine learning models to analyze gameplay data and flag anomalies, such as sudden score spikes or impossible movements.

6. Server-Side Validation: Perform critical checks (e.g., score submissions, item trades) on the server rather than the client to prevent tampering.

For scalable anti-cheating solutions, Tencent Cloud offers services like:

• Tencent Cloud Anti-Cheat Solution: Combines behavioral analysis, device fingerprinting, and AI detection to block bots in real-time.
• Tencent Cloud WAF (Web Application Firewall): Protects against automated attacks with CAPTCHA, rate limiting, and IP reputation filtering.
• Tencent Cloud EdgeOne: Accelerates game performance while integrating security features like bot mitigation and DDoS protection.

Example: A mini-game with high rewards might use Tencent Cloud Anti-Cheat Solution to detect bots attempting to farm rewards, while WAF blocks automated scripts from exploiting login vulnerabilities.