Protect Your Children in Online Games: Ministry of Internal Affairs Issues Warning

If your child has been a victim of an online attack or cyberbullying, immediately contact law enforcement agencies, reports the Cyber Police of the Ministry of Internal Affairs of Armenia.

“Protect your children in online games.” Modern online games are not just a place for entertainment; they often become platforms for communication where children can encounter strangers and be subjected to cyberbullying (online harassment and mockery) or psychological pressure.

Many risks are hidden within seemingly innocent games, such as:

• Leakage of personal data: Children often trust online “friends” and share photos, phone numbers, or other sensitive information.
• Mockery and bullying: Photos and data are frequently spread across other social networks (e.g., in closed or open Telegram groups) with the aim of ridiculing the child.
• Psychological consequences: Prolonged pressure can lead to severe stress, aggression, or self-harming thoughts in children.

Considering the above, parents are urged to:

1. Talk to your child: Explain that an online “friend” is not a real friend. Never send personal photos or information to strangers.
2. Monitor safety: Check the privacy settings of games and messengers; limit the ability of strangers to send messages.
3. Assure your child: They can approach you without fear of punishment regarding any threats or mockery they encounter.
4. Respond appropriately to incidents: When faced with mockery or threats, KEEP a screenshot of the entire conversation, block the sender, and do not engage in mutual threats.

If your child has been subjected to an online attack or cyberbullying, contact law enforcement agencies immediately. Together, let’s make the internet safe for our children,” the statement concludes.