TL; Dr.
- Children spend more time on gaming apps during summer, increasing cybercrime risk.
Dubai police Urge parents to play more hands in the supervision of digital habits.Parental control Material awareness, and honest interactions are important for safety.
When outside the school, the screen occurs. In the United Arab Emirates, Summer means long indoors, and for many children, who spend more time in playing online video games. Although it may seem harmless at first glance, Dubai Police is raising serious concerns. The Cybercrime Department is warning that the increase in summer in the screen time also increases online dangers, fraud, cyberbulling, exposure to inappropriate materials and even contact with predators. And it does not take much. A simple in-game chat or click on a message can open the door for danger.Therefore, the officials are calling to join more than the parents. Not later, now. Children are not always equipped to handle the risks of unheard digital play. Therefore, the guidance of parents is not just helpful, it is necessary. It is not about fear. It is about being aware, currently knowing how to live and work.
what’s the risk?
Why gaming is not always fun and game
- Stranger in disguise: Online games often come with chat features or messages boards. They can be pretended to have children by adults. Some can try to get individual details, others may build confidence before exploiting it.
- Fraud and forced recovery: Dubai Police reports in cases where children are cheated to share personal photos or personal information. Scammers can then use it to blackmail or manipulate it.
- Cyberbulling and Mental Health: Toxic online environment may make children feel stressed, worried or isolated. For some,
Gambling addiction Sleep becomes a real issue affecting grades and relationships.
What can parents do really do
- Turn on the control of parents: Most devices and sports have the underlying security settings. use them. They help block harmful materials, limit in-game purchase and manage chat features.
- Determine the deadline that stick: Every hour online is not bad, but balance matters. Choose a clear time frame for gaming and stick to them. Set the boundaries that allow for brakes, readings or physical plays.
- Learn the games that they play: Before saying yes to download, check the age ratings and reviews. Some games appear to be a child friendly, but include violent or clear materials or allow strangers to directly connect.
- Keep the conversation open: Talk to your children. Ask whom they are playing with. Tell them that if something online makes them uncomfortable then it is okay to come to you.
- Provide real world options: Arrange time for hobbies, books, outing or summer activities. Children turn on the screen when nothing else happens.
Where to report or learn more
If you feel that your child is made aware of online dangers, do not wait. Dubai Police provides several ways to report or find guidance:
- E-crime platform: https://ecrimehub.gov.ae/ar
- Phone support: Call 901
- Dubai Police App or Official Website
You can also find bilingual resources (Arabic and English) on the stage, which are suitable for parents, children and even business users, to help you understand and prevent cybercrime.
Fasting
- 1. If my child is being targeted online then what sign should I see?
Changes in mood, privacy, return, or sudden concern around the equipment can all sign something. Be supervisor.
- 2. Are all video games dangerous?
No, many are safe and even educational. The issue is unprotected sports, access to chat features, and with games that are not age-appropriate.
- 3. What if my child has already shared something online by mistake?
Stay calm Tell them that they are not in trouble. Report the issue immediately through the e-crime platform of Dubai Police or call 901 for help.
