The Indian Government has issued an advisory to teachers and parents regarding the safety of online gaming. Don’t allow in-game purchases without parental approval, adopting OTP payment methods based on OTP according to RBI’s guidelines, avoidance of debit and credit card registration on subscription apps and putting a limit on the amount of money spent per transaction, and not giving children the option of purchasing directly from their devices like laptops or smartphones devices they use to play, are just a few of the “do’s” and “don’ts” listed in the advice.
Teachers and Parents should be aware about online gaming
The advisory put up by the Indian Government on online gaming also recommended teachers and parents be on the lookout for unusually private behavior that is associated with their online activities, or an increase in the amount of time they spend online particularly on social media.
In the event that they change screens on their device whenever approached. They may also become depressed or angry when they are surfing the web and sending texts, and their device is suddenly filled with new phone numbers and email contacts.
Key points from the advisory by the Indian Government on online gaming
Don’ts
- Do not permit in-game purchases without parental approval. To prevent in-app purchases OTP-based payment options can be used in accordance with the RBI’s guidelines.
- Beware of credit and debit card registrations in subscription applications. Limit the spending per transaction.
- Don’t let your children purchase directly on their mobile or laptop they are using for gaming.
- Remind children to not download games or software from websites that are not reputable.
- Inform them to be wary of clicking on links, images or pop-ups on websites, as they could contain malware that could harm your computer. They may also contain content that is inappropriate for children.
- Remind them not to share personal information on the Internet when downloading games.
- It is not advisable to share personal information with strangers playing games or on gaming profiles.
- Inform them not to interact with strangers, even adults, via webcam private messaging, online chat, since it can increase the risk of being contacted by online users who abuse or bullies from other users.
- Encourage them to refrain from playing for extended periods of time without taking breaks, especially when you consider addiction and health issues.
Do’s
- When you are playing online games, should you notice something went wrong, stop immediately and capture a screen (using”print screen” on the keyboard) “print screen” button on the keyboard) and then report it.
- Encourage your child to safeguard their privacy online by requiring them to use the screen name (avatar) which does not reveal their true identity.
- Make use of antivirus/spyware software and secure your web browsers by using firewalls.
- Set parental controls and safety features on your device or within the browser or app to limit access to specific content and limit purchases made in-game.
- Be aware if someone attempts to initiate an inappropriate conversation or asks for personal details.
- Verify the age ratings of the games your child playing.
- If you are victimized by bullying, do not respond, and keep a log of any abusive messages. notify the game’s administrator/blocker or remove that player from their list. Or, disable the chat in-game feature.
- Have fun with your child and understand the way they handle their personal data and with whom they are sharing it with.
- Make sure your child is aware that some of the features found in online games are designed to encourage playing and spending. Discuss gambling with them about what it is, and its consequences online as well as in the physical world.
- Make sure your child has access to the internet via a computer that is part of the home of the family
An important step by the Indian Government on online gaming safety
With the above important points from the advisory issued by the Indian Government, it’s clear that online gaming even being a very important part of the gaming industry, is still posing a high-security risk to not only children but parents and other family members too. This 2021 we have seen many cases of online gaming mishaps like suicide attempts to drug cartel recruitments through popular online games. These insights can assist children to stay safe and play games that benefit them and keep them entertained.
What are your takeaways from the new advisory issued by the Indian Government for online gaming safety? Let us know in the comments below.
For more Mobile Gaming news and updates, join our WhatsApp group, Telegram Group, or Discord server. Also, follow us on Google News, Instagram, and Twitter for quick updates.
Whatever the government may say . But , it should be understood itself by the child .