Abu Dhabi Police warn of cybercrimes targeting child gamers, stressing that criminals are creating fake websites and game files to trick children into giving away personal or financial information. These scams often promise rare in-game items, cheats, or extra coins but instead steal accounts or install harmful software.
Lt. Col. Hamad Hiyab Al Ketbi, Head of the Child Exploitation Crimes Section, explained that five major risks face children in online gaming: cyberbullying, cyber extortion, online luring, exposure to inappropriate content, and online fraud. He warned that cybercrimes targeting child gamers are growing, especially during summer when children spend more time online.
Police said predators often try to lure children during gaming sessions by offering free rewards or virtual gifts. Parents are urged to teach children not to talk to strangers online, avoid clicking suspicious links, and report any abuse. The best response is to report, block offenders, and stop engagement.
Warning signs for parents include sudden mood changes, irritability, hiding screens, fear of using devices, or receiving offensive direct messages. These can signal exploitation. Al Ketbi stressed that awareness and prevention are more effective than banning internet use. Parents should set time limits, use parental controls, and monitor whether children use cameras or voice chat while gaming.
The Child Exploitation Crimes Section at the Ministry of Interior handles reports through hotline 116111, the “Hemayati” app, or the ministry’s website. Reports are kept confidential, and victim support services are available. Police highlighted that child safety is a shared duty of families, schools, and the community.
By staying alert and informed, parents can protect children from the dangers of cybercrimes targeting child gamers.
