The gamer received a request/an offer in the game that could be perceived as a scam.

Tips for protecting the gamer from scams

Age 6-9

Teach children the importance of keeping passwords private. Let them know that passwords are like secrets they shouldn’t share, even with friends.
Teach the gamer to use different passwords on different platforms and to use strong passwords (a mix of letters and special characters).
Explain that they should never click on links or buy things from a website outside the official game or app store. They should always ask a parent or guardian before clicking anything unfamiliar.
Make it clear that even if someone they met online offers free items or help in the game, sharing passwords or email addresses with strangers is not safe.
Teach them to tell a trusted adult if anyone is being mean or making them uncomfortable online. They should know that they can report players who are breaking the rules to keep the game fun and safe for everyone.

Age 10-12

Encourage using strong passwords with a mix of letters, numbers, and symbols. Explain the importance of different passwords for different accounts to keep each one safe.
Remind them that they should only make purchases on official websites, never through third-party links. Explain how these can be websites of scammers.
Teach them that personal details, such as login information, don’t need to be shared with anyone, even with friends. The chat is Public- other people can collect the data.
Remind them to update their passwords. if they ever scammed, they should change their passwords across all accounts.
Explain that if someone tries to scare or threaten them, they should tell a parent or trusted adult right away.
Credit card information should never be shared online, and if they believe it’s been compromised, they should immediately tell a parent so they can contact the credit card company for help.

Age 13-18

Teens may feel embarrassed if they’ve been scammed
When discussing financial scams, encourage them to speak up if they ever fall victim. You can say “You don’t need to be ashamed I am here to keep you safe online”
Remind them to update their passwords. if they are ever scammed, they should change their passwords across all accounts.
Remind them that they should only make purchases on official websites.
Teens need to realize that privacy goes both ways. Just as they want to protect their personal information, they should also respect the privacy of others. So they should never share personal information of their friends without consent.

Who to reach out to if you are involved in a scam

The Federal Trade Commission is the main agency that accepts reports of scams. Anything from phone calls to money demands to emails and computer support scams. Do not hesitate to reach out if you have been part of a scam.

If the gamer is being threatened by a scammer, report the scammer to the police if necessary and report to the platform of the game.