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Getting paid to play games on your phone sounds like a great way to earn some extra cash. Unfortunately, in reality, you're getting a relatively small amount of money in exchange for a lot of your time, attention, and personal information. In many cases, those are all worth more than these phone games will pay you.
One way to earn money on phone game apps is to take surveys or watch videos. This is similar to the way a couple of cash back apps work, though they mostly reward you for your shopping activity. Phone game apps mostly reward you for downloading and playing certain games.
How to make money playing games on your phone
Look for popular game platforms that will pay you to play. Broadly speaking, you'll be able to earn cash for testing new games or win money on bingo-style games. You'll have to spend money to play a lot of the bingo games, which in itself is a reason for caution. Also, check to see if it is legal in your state -- some states view them as online gambling and do not allow them.
In terms of testing new games, you can pick the type of game you like. Whether you're a tower defense fiend or love lining up lines of colored gems, there's something for everyone. To be clear, people do make money from these games. Even so, be suspicious of anything that promises huge payouts. A reasonable expectation might be to earn $10 to $50 a month.
What to watch out for
The biggest issue to be aware of with any gaming app is spyware. A University of Lille study showed that 87% of free games include at least one tracker -- invisible bots that collect valuable data from your phone.
Think about what information you are willing to share, and what permissions the app needs to function. For example, one gaming app I downloaded would only pay rewards if I authorized it to track my activity across other companies' apps and websites. For me, the chance to boost my bank account balance by even $50 a month isn't worth the risk.
Many apps will also try to entice you to spend money with them. You shouldn't have to spend money to make money with these games. It's also worth finding out how you'll get paid and how much you need to earn in money or points before you can withdraw your earnings. Some sites will give you gift cards or coupons, while others might make PayPal or even crypto payments.
Three better ways to earn some extra cash
Your time is valuable. And there are some excellent apps -- such as budgeting apps -- that help to save time and make your life easier. But online gaming apps are designed to eat up huge amounts of your time and energy for very little reward.
If you have some extra hours and want to make some extra cash, consider these online side hustles instead.
Online surveys
If you want to make a bit of cash filling out a survey while you're waiting at the checkout, use a specific survey app rather than a gaming one. If you pick the app carefully, there's less risk in the personal information you share.
Test websites
If you enjoy testing games, you could bring in some extra dollars by signing up with a company like Userlytics or UserPeek. You can earn around $10 per test. All you need is an internet connection, a microphone, and a device to connect.
Sign up with a freelance platform
It has never been easier to use your skills to bring in some extra cash. Perhaps you are good at writing or graphic design, you speak another language, or know how to code -- there are companies out there that want those talents. Platforms like Upwork and Fiverr will help you connect with potential clients.
Bottom line
You can make money by playing games online. But is it worth risking your personal data and allowing random apps to track your activity? Try using established survey and website testing companies to boost your bank balance. Then you can use online gaming as a way to relax -- with the added bonus that you only play the games you enjoy.
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