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10 Online Safety Tips for Gaming National Cybersecurity Alliance

AI-powered algorithms are often used in games to enhance user engagement, which can lead to addictive behaviors, especially in children whose self-regulation skills are still developing. If online gaming disorder is suspected, seek the support of a licensed mental health practitioner with experience in treating this disorder. Boundaries may need to be re-established, but it’s often more effective to gradually reduce gaming time and replace it with other engaging, real-world activities. When you ask a child to cut back, for example, they may get really agitated.

• Online gaming devices are just like a computer and a lot of parents don’t realize that.
• Starting a calm, supportive conversation can open the door to understanding the underlying reasons for excessive gaming.
• Some of the people you might be playing with could be older than you.
• 84% of teens say they have or have access to a game console at home.90% say they play video games of any kind (whether on a computer, game console or cellphone).
• It can also be used to create chatbots or fake profiles that mimic real people.
• The more information you post, the easier it may be for a criminal to use that information to steal your identity, access your data, or commit other crimes, such as stalking.
• Ultimately, the focus should be on fostering open communication, strengthening real-world connections, and supporting the child in building a healthier relationship with technology.

“This is a worthy mission and I feel good knowing that I can help Thorn use data and technology to protect kids.”RAJEN, SOFTWARE DEVELOPER IN ARLINGTON, VA These aren’t distant problems, they’re happening in our communities, and even in our homes. From grooming and sextortion to AI-generated deepfake nudes, the threats are real — but so are the solutions. This resource is 100% free to help parents and caregivers navigate digital safety conversations. “As both a parent and licensed therapist, I’ve seen firsthand how digital threats affect young people’s mental health.
I was experiencing a lot of turmoil as a fifth, sixth grader, transitioning into middle school …I found a lot of solace in online gaming… I finally met a friend, his name was Adam, I was 12 years old. Online games allow for a high degree of interactivity, where players can directly impact the game world and outcomes through their actions. 84% of teens say they have or have access to a game console at home.90% say they play video games of any kind (whether on a computer, game console or cellphone). Even if you’re in the game, somebody who has your game ID or screen name can send a text message to you and it will pop up on the screen and you can chat just like you do on a computer. More than 8 in 10 teens say they have a game console at home or have access to one, and 90% say they play video games on a computer, game console or cellphone, according to the Pew Research Center.
There is growing concern about the presence of sex and hypersexualized content in online games played by children. This resource is 100% free to inform you about the threats children face online and how you can help protect kids in your community. This guide to talking to kids about online safety includes tips for teaching kids device safety and choosing a safe first phone for kids.
Furthermore, VR can blur the line between the virtual and real world, making it harder for children to distinguish what is real, which can lead to confusion, distress, or inappropriate behavior. Virtual Reality (VR) introduces unique risks to children who engage in online gaming. Artificial intelligence (AI) can pose several risks to children who engage in online gaming.

Take action: Protect your child now

Be wary of clicking on links or downloading anything that comes from a stranger or that you were not expecting. We recommend keeping your gaming hardware and software as updated as possible. Just because a game is available on a trusted app store, doesn’t guarantee it is a safe app to download. Here are our 10 top tips for staying safe online with a joystick, or angry bird, in your hand!

What you’ll learn

Whether you’re an eSports pro, killing a few spare minutes on your phone, or enjoying an endless fantasy realm for hours, who doesn’t love online gaming? Whether you’re a parent, guardian, teacher, coach, or community member, this knowledge helps you better support the young people around you. Every day, children navigate an increasingly complex digital world. Yes, this guide includes supportive steps and resources for families facing these challenges. This guide provides exactly what parents need to navigate these difficult conversations with confidence and care.”— Rachel R., Licensed Clinical Social Worker We’ve put together a helpful guide that covers connecting with people online, identifying grooming behavior, and covers the increasing threat of sextortion.
Additionally, VR can create social risks, as children may interact with strangers in online multiplayer environments, which can expose them to cyberbullying, inappropriate language, or even predatory behavior. AI-driven recommendation systems (like in chat or game suggestions) can inadvertently expose children to inappropriate content or conversations that are not age-appropriate. Learn what to teach kids before giving them a phone and discover tips for parenting through online dangers.This comprehensive online grooming prevention resource is for parents with children beginning to build connections online. To mitigate these risks, parents should set clear usage boundaries, monitor content carefully, and ensure that their child takes regular breaks to avoid physical and psychological strain.

• Many gaming platforms have parental controls, which can help families to manage things like stranger access and screen time limits.
• These aren’t distant problems, they’re happening in our communities, and even in our homes.
• Sometimes some players use the chat function to say mean things or try to distract other gamers from their game.
• Learn how to identify competition scams and get tips to help you stay safe online.
• This resource is 100% free to inform you about the threats children face online and how you can help protect kids in your community.
• “This is a worthy mission and I feel good knowing that I can help Thorn use data and technology to protect kids.”RAJEN, SOFTWARE DEVELOPER IN ARLINGTON, VA
• Caregivers can prepare their children to safely navigate online interactions.

Online Gaming risks and concerns include the following:

The right amount of game time is different for each child and family. What you need to know to avoid unexpected charges with games that offer in-app purchases or “loot boxes”. https://lussurio.co.uk/ Before you start playing, check how to report, block or mute other players. Lots of games allow players to talk to one another while they play. Even when we’re enjoying gaming, after long periods it can impact the quality of our sleep, our moods and our balance and relationships in the real world. If this happens turn off the game and speak to an adult you trust.

The lack of strict age verification and effective parental controls can make it difficult to shield young players from these influences, raising serious concerns about their safety and well-being in digital environments. Additionally, online multiplayer games often lack sufficient moderation, allowing inappropriate language, behaviors, and even predatory interactions to occur. Installing parental control software, limiting game time, and having open conversations about online dangers are all important steps.
In the digital age, it is so much easier for young people to connect and form relationships with individuals they only know online. “Stranger danger” is no longer a cut-and-dry piece of advice.