Online gaming is a hugely popular past time for kids and adults. Games like Minecraft, Pokémon Go, Fortnite and Roblox are enjoyed by millions of young gamers every day. 

These games are largely safe and fun – but there are a few risks you need to be aware of before they sign up. Make sure you discuss each of these challenges with your child – and ensure they know how to respond if they ever encounter one of them.

Cyberbullying

Children may encounter name-calling and abuse from other players in games with live-chat functions. Also known as ‘griefing’, cyberbullying can be extremely upsetting for victims.

Inappropriate content

Most games have an age rating for a reason. Any game with an adult rating will contain adult content such as violence, bad language and nudity. You can protect your children by ensuring they only play age-appropriate online games.

Stranger danger

Games that provide live chat functions will almost inevitably bring your children into contact with strangers. Most of the time, these strangers will be of a similar age – but there is always a risk they may connect with a predator. Consider blocking access to live chat features and talk about your child’s online interactions. By showing an interest and encouraging kids to talk, you can help protect them against online grooming.

Gaming addiction

Online games are intended to be fun and engaging, but this can quickly spiral into addiction. Spending excessive time playing games will affect sleep, schoolwork and personal relationships. Agreeing a daily time limit can help to manage addictive potential – so long as those time limits are carefully enforced.

Financial risks

Online games offer a host of upgrades, ‘loot boxes’ and in-game purchases intended to make gameplay more fun. There are also plenty of scams designed to rob players through fake online purchases. To avoid excessive spend, make sure that your kids cannot make purchases without your consent. Never, ever leave your credit card details attached to their gaming account.

Privacy and personal security

Some games, particularly smartphone games, collect a lot of personal data in the background. Pay attention to the terms and conditions when installing apps and only proceed if you are happy to accept. You should also talk to your child about the information they share online, particularly with strangers. You can read more about privacy for kids in “8 things your kids shouldn’t do online”.

How to keep your kids safe online

As well as talking to kids about the games they play and who they interact with, you also need tools to provide additional safeguards. Panda Dome Family includes a host of useful features that allow you to monitor and if necessary, control, internet access for kids.

Panda Dome Family provides reports to show the apps your kids are using and the amount of time spent. You can also set time limits across devices, enforcing the rules and helping establish a healthy online/offline balance. Discover more about our products and how it will help you manage the risks your kids while playing online games in parental control features.