Are you a gamer who loves to play online? Do you enjoy the thrill of multiplayer games and interacting with other players from all around the world? While online gaming can be a great way to have fun, it can also expose you to online harassment.
According to a recent survey, a staggering 86% of adult gamers have experienced some form of online harassment while playing games. From hate speech and verbal abuse to stalking and doxing, the types of harassment can vary widely. This is a concerning trend, and it’s not getting better any time soon.
Fortunately, there are steps you can take to protect yourself and enjoy your game without worrying about online harassment. In this article, we’ll explore some of the most common types of online harassment in gaming and provide tips on how to stay safe.
Types of Online Harassment in Gaming
Online harassment in gaming can take many forms. Some of the most common types of harassment include:
- Verbal abuse: This includes using hate speech, making threats, and engaging in personal attacks.
- Stalking: This involves following a player from game to game, sending unwanted messages, and trying to intimidate or control them.
- Doxing: This is the practice of publicly sharing a player’s personal information, such as their real name or address, without their consent.
- Swatting: This is a dangerous form of harassment that involves calling in a false emergency to a player’s location in an attempt to get them swarmed by police.
These are just a few examples of the types of online harassment that gamers can experience. It’s important to remember that online harassment can happen to anyone, regardless of age, gender, or ethnicity.
Tips for Staying Safe While Gaming Online
So, what can you do to protect yourself from online harassment while playing games online? Here are some tips:
- Use a pseudonym: Consider using a different username than the one you use on other social media platforms. This can make it harder for harassers to find your personal information.
- Don’t share personal information: Avoid sharing personal information like your real name, address, or phone number with other players.
- Use privacy settings: Many games have privacy settings that allow you to control who can contact you and see your profile. Use these settings to your advantage.
- Report harassment: Most games have a reporting feature that allows you to report harassment. Use this feature if you experience any form of online harassment.
- Take a break: If the harassment becomes too much, don’t be afraid to take a break from the game. Your mental health and safety are more important than any game.
Online harassment is a serious issue that affects many gamers. However, by taking some simple steps to protect yourself, you can enjoy your game without worrying about online harassment. Remember to use a pseudonym, avoid sharing personal information, and report harassment if you experience it. With these tips, you can stay safe and enjoy your game.
