Protecting a child is a full-time job for parents. That includes teaching kids as they grow up about all the ways they need to stay safe. That starts with the basics, such as looking both ways before crossing the street or wearing a helmet when riding a bike or skateboard. As kids get older, they often navigate towards online gaming, texting, and exploring the Internet.
That’s when parents have to adjust their mindset and delve into a topic no one wants to face: online sex offenders.
Online gaming platforms like Roblox and Discord are popular destinations for pre-teens and teens to play games and interact with one another. Unfortunately, some of these sites allow for open access, where anyone can contact your child and engage in conversations that can turn into very dark areas.
Several families discovered the dangers that some of these sites pose and are now suing Roblox and Discord for failure to protect minor users.
Whether your child is already online or you’re thinking about allowing them to sign up for a gaming platform, you’ll minimize the risk of harmful encounters by putting the following safety protocols into action.
Know the Passwords
Your child should not have an online account that you don’t have the password to. Having access to passwords lets your child know that you have access to their online accounts.
Some of the older teens might balk at this, but it is better to have the passwords and not use them than to need them and not have them. You should keep all passwords written on a master list in a secure location at home.
Monitor Online Activity
There are numerous parental control apps available for parents to use, which can help them monitor their child’s online activity. These apps can help you check which websites they visit, who they chat with, and what communication is exchanged.
Some of these apps can also send out alerts to parents the moment there is any dangerous or inappropriate activity.
Set Boundaries
Before your child begins their online activity, you should set boundaries about what apps they’re allowed to visit and how long they’re allowed to stay on the apps. There also needs to be consequences established for breaking the rules, like sneaking on at night.
No Devices in the Bedroom at Night
Your kids need to understand that your role as a parent is to protect them, and that means there will be limitations, such as not having devices in their bedroom at night. Even though that might be one of the rules you establish, sometimes the temptation is too strong.
If the device is out of the room, everyone is safe from breaking the rule.
Don’t Accept Friend Requests from Strangers
One of the fun aspects of gaming platforms for kids is playing online with their friends. One of the first rules to teach your kid is not to accept friend requests from strangers. The only friends your child should have are classmates they know in person.
Predators will often set up fake profiles to gain access to children, and they’re very skilled at lying. It is part of how they groom minors.
Keep the Lines of Communication Open
As a parent, you will need to have some difficult conversations with your kids. Even though you might not have had these talks with your parents, we’re living in a new world where children can be exposed to all kinds of topics they’re not ready to process.
It’s essential to educate your young children about body boundaries and your older children about consent. The more you engage with your child on these topics, the more they will feel comfortable approaching you to ask questions or raise concerns.
Activate Parental Controls
Most gaming platforms have parental controls that limit access to inappropriate content. If there are no parental controls, your child shouldn’t be playing that game.
Perform a Weekly Device Check
Once you’ve put all these protocols in place, you have to be proactive. Take a few minutes every week to check the devices for any potential risks or dangers. This is not snooping; it is being smart.
Every parent of a child who has been lured into harmful situations probably wishes they had checked in on what their child was up to online.
When Do You Need to Ask for Legal Help?
If you find yourself in a situation where an online predator has compromised your child, there are two ways to find accountability. The first is with a criminal prosecution. The second is with a civil complaint. A civil lawsuit can be filed against the offender and potentially against the platform that failed to provide adequate safety measures.
In that scenario, the experienced Chicago sexual assault attorneys at the Thomas Law Offices can provide the support and guidance you need to understand all the options to pursue accountability.
We can discuss your concerns in a free and confidential consultation.
Call to schedule that talk today. We’re ready to listen.
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