Top Three Tips to Keep Your Kids Safe from Video Game Bullies

By Samantha Wilson

Online multi player games (like Sims Online, Halo 2) are one of the most popular activities for kids on the Internet - especially for boys. If your kids are playing games online, it's likely that they have been bugged by the equivalent of "online playground bullies" AKA (also know as) Griefers, Twinks or Snerts. You've Got to Be Kidding!

Nope. Griefers are players that use online games to annoy or harass others. Their target can be a newbie (beginner) or anyone that reacts to their antics. Griefers cause grief by taunting players by using bad language, intimidation and even by cheating.

They may come in groups - or "online gangs" (what next!) and can block entryways, and lure monsters towards their target and make playing very difficult.

How many Griefers are there online? Who knows for sure? Likely there are only a small percentage of users out there that have nothing better to do than to harass others, but the potential for larger numbers is inherent to the nature of the Internet. The best defense is knowledge and communication with your kids. To help you, help your kids, here are the top three tips to teach your kids:

• Ignore them! Griefers are looking to get a reaction. That is what fuels them. If your child doesn't react, most will just go away.
• Choose game sites with strict rules. Read the codes of conduct and terms of use for each game. Make sure that there is a policy that prohibits and responds to complaints of Griefers.
• Don't use provocative names that can encourage or attract a potential griefer. Your child's game name (gamertag) should be gender natural and non specific.
  With proper supervision and open communication, playing online multi player games can be a lot of fun for kids. However parents need to be persistent in setting limits on the types of games their kids' play, how often and with whom they are playing with.

© Samantha Wilson