Age 6
Knowing what to do and what to avoid
when playing online games on a console,
PC or mobile device can potentially create
a good or bad experience. Social media
apps add a whole new layer of interactivity
to the mix. Of course, you're there to have
fun, but there usually seems to be someone
who is determined to cause a ruckus, or
worse.
Here are some online safety tips that will
hopefully make your online gaming the best
it can be.
Gaming & social sites
The internet has made the
gaming experience much more
social. Whether playing an app or game,
individuals can easily collaborate and
communicate with others online. But it
is impossible to know exactly who is on
the other end of that digital connection.
Online communities are often made up of
anonymous strangers, and discussions may
not be moderated.
It is easy for anyone — young or old
— to inadvertently give away personal
information that can be damaging. Caution
should always be used when communicating
online, even in seemingly harmless
ways. Usernames should be completely
anonymous (avoid birthdays or ages), and
never give passwords, addresses or other
contact information to strangers. Easy rule
of thumb: If you wouln't tell a stranger in
person these things, don't tell a random
person online.
Recognize
cyberbullying
Instances of cyberbullying have
grown alongside the popularity of the
internet. Cyberbullies tease and taunt
through email, social media and other
online modes of communication. The
organization NoBullying says that 52
percent of young people in the United
Kingdom report being cyberbullied, but
many will not tell their parents when the
abuse occurs. More than half of young
people in North America also have
experienced cyberbullying.
Cyberbullying can take many forms,
including sending mean messages or
threats, spreading rumors, posting hurtful
messages on social media, stealing account
information, sending damaging messages,
and circulating sexually suggestive pictures
or messages about a person.
Anyone, regardless of age, who spends
time on social media can fall victim to
cyberbullying. By blocking people, limiting
the amount of personal information
they share online, and letting your adult
know what's happening, you can reduce
the likelihood or being victimized by
cyberbullies.
46 • Off icial Kids Mag • AUG & SEPT 2018
