online gaming, gamers, children gaming, South Africa’s censors, updated rules, ways to stay safe online, ways for parents to keep their kids safe

The Information Resource Centre of Government Communication and Information System has provided five tips for parents to ensure their children are safe while gaming online. Photo: Stock Image / Pixabay

Is your child a gamer? Here’s how to ensure they’re safe online…

South Africa’s censors’ updated rules come into play in August and parents have been encouraged to ensure their child is safe online.

online gaming, gamers, children gaming, South Africa’s censors, updated rules, ways to stay safe online, ways for parents to keep their kids safe

The Information Resource Centre of Government Communication and Information System has provided five tips for parents to ensure their children are safe while gaming online. Photo: Stock Image / Pixabay

Updated rules for South Africa’s censors that are due to come into effect in August this year have many rules regarding gaming and children in the country.

Updated rules have strong methods of safety

One updated rule suggests that no child under the age of 10 years old should ever play any video game without adult supervision, reports Business Insider. In terms of game makers, they now have to be wary of how they ‘reward violence’ in order to avoid having to put higher age limits on their games.

On Friday, the Film and Publication Board shared a new version of guidelines for restrictions regarding gaming, movies and even series.

How can parents keep their child safe while they’re gaming online?

With all of these new rules coming into play the Information Resource Centre of Government Communication and Information System has provided tips for parents to keep their kids safe as they game online.

Below are five tips offered by the Information Resource Centre:

  • Bullying

Parents have been urged to encourage their children to speak to them about whether or not they are being bullied. This includes areas in which other users make the child feel uncomfortable. 

If possible, parents are advised to block these players.

  • Screen names

Children should NOT use their real names while gaming online. Parents are advised to inform their kids about the dangers of giving out personal information. Physical locations are just as important as phone numbers and email addresses and should not be shared online with strangers.

  • Talk about gaming

Parents are encouraged to talk to their children about their gaming. Show an interest and inquire about their fellow gamers and who they are in contact with.

  • Research games FIRST

Before deciding if a game is right for your child, parents are encouraged to research it. Consumers’ opinion forums are available online along with review websites and publications.

  • Familiarise yourself with the game

In order to familiarise yourself with the game, you don’t have to play it yourself (although this is a suggestion). Parents are also advised to watch their child play the game to understand more about it and whether or not it is suitable.

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