Sunday, October 10, 2021

Tips for being safe while playing online video games (parents edition)

 As parents, you will always worry when your kids ask to play video games online. And it is a valid concern as games are evolving and cyber-crimes are increasing. Thus, you need to ensure that your kids do not fall into scams/frauds.

How can you do that? If restricting your kids from playing online video games on their Xbox or PS4 is your idea, then you are wrong. That will cause rebellion amongst them. However, there are a few simple ways that you can undertake to ensure your kids are safe while playing games online. We are listing them below.


1. Make sure you are in the loop

The first step towards protecting your kid from online scammers is to be in the loop. Make your kid trust you so that they tell you if they buy new games or play one. You can do this by going with them to the video game store and buying them the games. That way, you can be sure that you get only the age-appropriate games for them. 

2. Do the research

Every video game is different, and the manufacturer usually classifies what age group should play it. Still, as a parent, you should do your research and make a decision based on what you are comfortable with.

For instance, some parents may be okay with their kids playing hunting games. But only ones which are not military-based. Others may consent to few games with mature violent content, but not sexual ones. To understand which game has what content, you need to read the description of the game. Then you will be able to make the right decision for your kid.

3. Use an HWID spoofer

Kids are smart these days. They know that there are numerous hacks and tips available on the internet. These tips can help them win the game or enhance their play. However, they are unaware that the gaming team can find out about cheats/hacks using HWID, an hardware identifier. Through this, the community can know about the cheat and ban the player. To ensure this doesn’t happen, either never use cheats or hack. Or make sure you have an HWID spoofer that keeps the development team from knowing about the use of hacks. 

4. Educate your child on online safety

 Playing games online is an exciting idea and children love this idea. However, they are unaware that the online gaming community can become obsessive. It is addictive and can lead to other safety issues. Thus, you must educate your children about the risks of playing games online. 

Teach them:

That there will be players who will use strong or abusive languages. The child doesn't need to use them. They can also report the same to you, and you can report it to the gaming authority.

Ask your children to make a username that doesn’t include any personal information. 

Ask them to never share any details about their life with strangers on the internet.

The safety of your kid is in your hands. Follow these tips so that they are safe while enjoying the game.


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