The Hidden Risks Kids Face in Online Gaming
Mariana Raymond
Oct 7, 20253 min read
For many kids and teenagers, gaming is more than just a hobby. It’s a place to connect with friends, show off skills, and feel part of a community. But alongside the fun, there’s a growing risk: scammers who see young players as easy targets. They know kids are curious, trusting, and eager to get ahead in the game - and that combination can make them vulnerable.
For you as a parent, it’s important to be aware of the risks and guide your child as they navigate the online world. With the right support, they can enjoy gaming while staying safe.
Scammers are creative, but a few schemes show up again and again:
- Free stuff that isn’t free: Pop-ups or links promising rare items or in-game currency that actually steal login details.
- Fake support messages: Texts, calls, or DMs pretending to be game support, warning of a ban unless your child acts quickly.
- Friends who aren’t friends: Impersonators asking for one-time codes or recovery details.
- Trading outside the game: Deals that move kids onto fake websites designed to grab personal info or payment details.
In every case, the aim is the same: to get access to accounts, money, or sensitive information.
How you can step in
The most effective defense isn’t high-tech, it’s a mix of clear rules and open conversations. Here are a few ways to help your child stay safer:
- Talk regularly. Make scams part of the normal online safety chat, just like seatbelts or crossing the street.
- Keep the basics clear. Passwords, recovery keys, and one-time codes should never be shared- not even with friends.
- Stick to official channels. Trades, purchases, and downloads should only happen within the game or in trusted app stores.
- Set boundaries around money. Use parental controls or family settings to manage in-game spending.
- Be their “pause button.” Encourage your child to check in with you if something feels urgent or too good to be true.
Scammers know kids are eager to win, collect, and move fast - and they take advantage of that excitement. As parents, the most powerful thing you can do is help your child slow down, trust their instincts, and feel comfortable coming to you when something feels off. With your guidance and a few clear rules, they’ll be able to enjoy the gaming without falling for the tricks waiting in the shadows.
How can Truecaller help?
Truecaller offers more than just our renowned Caller ID and spam-blocking features; we provide a fortress against fraud. Our technology helps you identify unknown calls and messages, allowing you to block scam attempts proactively, by both calls and texts.
At Truecaller we have made it our mission to build trust in communication. We do our best to help you navigate a world where fraud and unwanted communication are a part of your daily life. Stay updated about recent scams, and watch the latest YouTube videos on how you and the 450 million-strong community of people using Truecaller every month can stay protected. You'll find us on X, Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok.
Mariana Raymond
Oct 7, 20253 min read
