Predators and Gaming Consoles

 

 There’s an article in USA Today regarding predators and gaming consoles. Although this problem is not news to us gaming parents, it is definitely something all parents should worry about.

Parents who don’t game, or are not aware of the communication abilities of their children’s consoles, are going to get a rude awakening if they are not parent-protecting their child’s account. Predators are alive and well on XBL (Xbox Live), and it is our job to control our minor child’s gaming activity.

Luckily, there are easy communication restrictions available on any child’s Xbox Live account.

FIND THEM AND USE THEM.

• Block incoming messages
• Don’t approve new friends until you’ve played, or previewed them first
• Keep your kids out of camera-enabled games such as UNO
• Beware of fileshare photos on games like Halo 3 (Rated ‘M’ means ‘Mature,’ NOT ‘Minor’)
• Password protect your child’s account, so he or she cannot change the settings
• Be in the room, or within earshot, while your child plays with others
• Most importantly, talk to your children about predators online. Giving them the tools to deal with inappropriate people online will make them feel empowered, and will likely make them less of a target

IF you or your child runs into a gamer who is inappropriate online:

• Report them. Select their gamertag, go to ‘file a complaint,’ and select the appropriate options.
• Afterwards, go to the feedback option and leave negative feedback and select ‘avoid player.’
• If your child receives an inappropriate photo, DO NOT DELETE. Save the message/photo with the sender’s Gamertag and contact XBL, or your local authorities. Sending pornographic pictures to a minor is a CRIME and XBL will work with authorities to prosecute the offender.

Overall, the more we report these sickos, the faster they’ll be kicked off of ‘Live,’ and the quicker the rest of us can go back to using the console for what it’s meant for – having fun.

Stay safe and happy gaming!

- Mommy DX