Calling All Gamers!

How does it occur?

Scammers often reach out to online Gamers, maybe via chat forums or by placing what seems like enticing offers on social media platforms or on the internet, to try and reel you into their scams.

One of the the scammers’ tricks is to offer you a freebie, such as free V-Bucks! You may be tempted, but you should think twice, as there are a lot of fake websites created by the scammers. If you take the bait, you could end up getting banned from the game and even worse if it is illegal.

What should You know?

The scammer will try to use your passion for gaming and their free offers as a bait, to lure you into inappropriate chat, inappropriate sharing of images, sharing your personal/sensitive information, and keeping you up into the early hours of the morning, chatting about nothing really that important.

The freebies offered by the scammer will likely never materialise.

The scammers are often after your or your parents/carers credit card details, so that they can use these to steal money.

What should You do?

You should also watch out for spending too much time gaming – limit your gaming time as you could easily find yourself gaming into the early hours of the morning!

You should never share your personal or sensitive information on the online gaming chat forums, as the scammers may use your information to scam, bully or threaten you later.

You should never reveal your, or your parents', credit card details.

You should talk to your parents or carers.

Report to MASH@DCFS.gov.ky or call 945-0545 or KIDSLINE on 649-5437 or the RCIPS tel.: 911. All communication will be kept confidential and you will be offered support.

Alternatively, you can speak to your school counsellor or a trusted adult.