Video Game Safety: A Parent's Guide to Online Play, Chat, and Spending

Video games offer creativity, teamwork, and problem‑solving — but online play introduces new risks. Set clear boundaries, use platform controls, and keep communication open so your child can enjoy gaming safely.

The Big Risks

• Stranger contact: Voice and text chat with unknown players.
• Inappropriate content: Offensive language, bullying, or adult themes.
• In‑game purchases: Loot boxes, cosmetics, and pressure to spend.
• Excessive play: Loss of sleep, neglected responsibilities, mood changes.

Privacy and Personal Information

• Use privacy settings to hide real names, locations, and profiles.
• Teach kids never to share phone numbers, addresses, or school names.
• Create separate gaming emails (not linked to family accounts).

Chat and Communication

• Start with chat disabled or friends‑only for younger kids.
• Monitor chat logs when possible; discuss examples of respectful and disrespectful talk.
• Teach kids to mute, block, and report harassment immediately.

In‑Game Purchases

• Require purchase approval (password or biometric lock).
• Set spending limits or use prepaid cards.
• Explain how "free" games make money and why loot boxes are risky.

Platform‑Specific Controls

• Xbox, PlayStation, Nintendo: Family accounts, screen time limits, spending caps.
• PC (Steam, Epic): Parental PIN, purchase restrictions, chat filters.
• Mobile (iOS, Android): Screen Time / Digital Wellbeing, in‑app purchase locks.

Age‑Specific Guidance

• Ages 6–9: Stick to offline or friends‑only modes; co‑play often.
• Ages 10–12: Introduce online play with supervision; teach reporting tools.
• Ages 13+: Grant more freedom with regular check‑ins; discuss online reputation and empathy.

Red Flags

• Secretive behavior or deleted messages.
• Sudden mood changes after gaming.
• Requests for money or gift cards without explanation.
• New "friends" pressuring for personal info or photos.

Conversation Starters

• Who do you play with? How did you meet them?
• Have you ever seen something that made you uncomfortable?
• What would you do if someone asked for your phone number or password?

FAQs

Are online games safe for kids?

With proper settings and supervision, yes. Disable chat, use privacy controls, and monitor playtime.

How do I limit spending?

Require approval for all purchases, use prepaid cards, and discuss the value of digital items.

What if my child is being bullied in a game?

Take screenshots, block the player, report to the platform, and reassure your child they did nothing wrong.

Should I play with my child?

Absolutely — it builds trust, lets you model respectful behavior, and gives you firsthand insight into the game's environment.