Talking to people you don’t know while gaming
Meeting new people while you’re gaming can be part of the fun. But it’s important to keep gaming in a safe environment when chatting with strangers. Let’s look at some tips on how to talk to people you don’t know while keeping your gaming experience fun and secure.
Why should you be careful?
When you’re gaming online, you might come across players from all over the world. While many are friendly and just want to play, some might not have good intentions. Being cautious helps protect your personal information and keeps you safe from potential harm.
Tips for safe communication
1. Keep personal info private:
never share your real name, address, school, or other personal details. Stick to your gamertag and keep your private life private.
2. Use in-game chat:
most games have built-in chat features. Use these instead of sharing your social media or phone number.
3. Be wary:
if someone asks for personal information or tries to get you to click on links, be careful. They might be trying to scam you.
4. Set boundaries:
if someone makes you uncomfortable, it’s OK to stop talking to them. You can mute, block, or report them if needed.
5. Stay positive:
focus on game-related conversations. Talk about strategies, tips, and fun moments in the game.
What to do if things get weird
1. Tell a trusted adult:
if someone is being creepy or asking for personal info, talk to a parent, teacher, or another trusted adult. They can help you figure out what to do.
2. Report suspicious behaviour:
most games have a way to report players who are acting weird or making you uncomfortable. Use these tools to keep the gaming community safe.
3. Take a break:
if a conversation gets too intense or makes you feel uneasy, take a break from the game. It’s OK to step away and do something else for a while.
Making friends safely
Meeting new friends online can be great. Here are some tips to do it safely:
1. Start slow:
get to know people gradually. Play a few games together and see how they behave.
2. Group play:
join games with multiple players. It’s safer than one-on-one chats.
3. Common interests:
talk about the game and other hobbies you enjoy. Keep the conversation light and fun.
Remember, you’re in control
You have the power to decide who you talk to and what you share. If someone makes you feel uncomfortable, it’s OK to end the conversation. Your safety and comfort are the most important things.
