Advice for young people: online gaming

Online gaming can be fun, but sometimes there are things people do that could make you feel awkward. It’s a good idea to be aware of some of the risks and how to keep yourself safe.

General safety tips

Keep your details private:

If anyone asks you to share your password or any personal information with them, don’t send it.

Use strong passwords:

As with all your devices, it's a good idea to create strong, unique passwords for gaming accounts. Don't share your passwords with friends.

Adjust privacy settings:

Check out the options for the privacy settings on your gaming platforms so you can control who you see, who sees you, who can contact you and what information the platform is collecting and storing about you.

In-game behaviour tips

Respect other players

It’s normal to feel competitive when playing games, but there’s nothing wrong with losing. Respect other players and don’t intentionally upset anyone in order to get ahead.

Choose your online friends carefully

You should report or block other players who behave inappropriately. Limiting your use of voice chat to only people you are friends with in the real world can help avoid any unwanted contact. Being wary of new friend requests is also a way to avoid this.

Keep your financial information private

Beware that there can be scammers operating in gaming platforms just like there are in social media or other online places. Never share your financial information with other gamers.

If you're uncomfortable online, ask a trusted adult for help

Some of the people you might be playing with could be older than you. Remember to be aware and tell your parents or another trusted adult if you feel upset or uncomfortable about what someone is saying to you or sending you.

Healthy gaming choices

Many gaming platforms have parental controls, which can help families to manage things like stranger access and screen time limits.

Game ratings are another source of support for you in making healthy choices to ensure you will have a good experience gaming.

Personal wellbeing

Some games have content that might upset you or you may see something that makes you feel upset. If this happens turn off the game and speak to an adult you trust.

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. Taking breaks and spending time doing other activities you enjoy for a while can help make you feel rebalanced.

Reporting & blocking

Lots of games allow players to talk to one another while they play.

Sometimes some players use the chat function to say mean things or try to distract other gamers from their game.

Before you start playing, check how to report, block or mute other players.

If someone says something to you that upsets you or makes you feel uncomfortable, speak to a parent or another trusted adult about it.

Contact Netsafe

If you're experiencing online harm, fallen victim to a scam, or need some advice about another online issue, Netsafe is here to support you.

Our helpline is free, confidential and non-judgmental - providing expert advice and assistance seven days a week.

Report online (https://report.netsafe.org.nz/hc/en-au/requests/new)Email [email protected] (mailto:[email protected])Text 'Netsafe' to 4282 (sms:4282?body=Netsafe)Live chat support Call 0508 638 723 8am-8pm weekdays, 9am-5pm weekends (tel:0508638723)New Zealanders overseas can call +64 9 666 0840 (tel:+6496660840)