Christie Evans
Many computer games are played online against other players over the internet, whether on a console, computer, mobile device or via social networking sites. Most play using an assumed identity, so you are generally already unaware of who they really are.
A lot of online games support different models of online play. They often use different terms, which can make it confusing. Essentially, there is the “free for all” method when anyone in the world can be in the same game, or there is a more closed environment where you get to choose or invite people to the game. The later is the much safer option. In this context, the child then knows every person in the game, even if they are on the other side of the world, like an international relative. In most cases the only difference in this version of online play is that the group inside the game is often smaller.
The school watches games come and go in popularity however the problem of cyber bullying remains consistent. Any game which has multiple players and/or a communication platform has potential risk. When they join/compete in a group within a game they can be inviting unknown players into their lives.
It is crucial that parents have an open communication with their child/ren about what they access on line to protect them from cyber bullying.
The link below has some suggestions how to keep your child safe online.