Get the best Tips for Kids, Tweens and Teens:
Keep a clean machine: All Internet-enabled devices need to be kept up-to-date to protect them from malware and other threats. Security protections are built in and updated on a regular basis. Take time to make sure all the mobile devices in your house have the latest protections. Before you start playing, be sure your computer/gaming system has the latest operating system, software - including anti-virus protection, web browsers and apps.
Make your passwords long and strong: Use a strong password for your gaming accounts. Be sure your password has at least eight characters and uses numbers, letters, and symbols.
Speak up: If another player is making you feel uncomfortable, tell a trusted adult.
Report cyberbullies: Learn how to block and/or report another player if they are making you uncomfortable. Keep a record of what the other player said, but do not engage them.
Protect your personal information: Never reveal your real name, location, gender, age, or any other personal information. Keep your user name vague and use an avatar rather than an actual picture of yourself.
Protect your identity: Do not use voice chat when playing an online game, unless there is a feature that allows you to disguise your voice. Do not use a web-cam while playing an online game. Do not present yourself as dating material.
Put a time limit on yourself for game playing.
When in doubt, throw it out: Do not accept downloads from strangers. This includes cheat programs that may claim to help you perform better in the game, but really could be carrying malware.
Be web wise: Do not send out materials to fellow gamers that contains personal information and/or data.
Think before you act: Do not meet a stranger from your gaming world in person. People are not always who they say they are.
Be a good digital citizen: Know the risks and practice good judgment.
