Cybercriminals launched more than 7 million attacks against young gamers by exploiting popular games, such as Roblox, Minecraft, Fortnite, and Apex Legends.
American children engage in online gaming for a duration ranging from 40 to over 96 minutes daily. However, these virtual gaming environments can expose them to various real-world hazards. It is essential to be aware of the potential risks associated with online gaming, including hacking, financial fraud, mental health concerns, and the constant dangers posed by online predators and cyberbullies. Understanding these threats is crucial for safeguarding your children while they participate in online gaming activities.
Children are now spending unprecedented amounts of time online, encountering risks that were previously unimaginable. The LEGO Group, renowned for its iconic LEGO® bricks, is strategically dedicated to assisting children globally in learning through play and aims to address this challenge. By collaborating with policymakers and regulators across the Asia Pacific region, the LEGO Group endeavored to comprehend and develop policy solutions that would aid today’s youth in navigating the evolving digital environment, while simultaneously advancing the company’s commitment to promoting children’s well-being.
Protecting Children CHALLENGE..
As digital play becomes more prevalent, children today encounter novel and significant risks. Issues such as hacking, privacy breaches, and child safety represent the next challenges for responsible parenting. Although the dangers are becoming more acknowledged, conversations regarding effective policies and regulations to address these concerns remain in their early stages throughout the Asia Pacific region. The LEGO Group aimed to participate in the policy dialogue to foster a secure and enriching digital play environment for children.
Protecting Children SOLUTION..
The Government and Public Affairs team at the LEGO Group collaborated with APCO to gain insights into the regional landscape and specific local factors across four APAC markets. APCO conducted an analysis of prevailing market trends, regulatory frameworks, and the stakeholders involved in digital interactions with children. The objective was to discover strategies for influencing policy to create a more equitable balance between the availability of technology and the safety of children. Our recommendations guided the LEGO Group in its efforts to participate in policy dialogues through innovative research that integrates the perspectives of all essential stakeholders, including children.
Protecting Children IMPACT..
Through the exploration of unconventional approaches to tackle this issue, APCO successfully organized the LEGO Group’s interactions with policymakers and regulators, thereby improving the overall comprehension of the challenges and expectations faced by children and pertinent stakeholders. This engagement not only facilitated the necessary changes to optimize the use of technology but also increased awareness of the company’s commitment to providing advantageous digital play experiences for children, with a focus on their well-being.
The 8 Biggest Online Gaming Risks..
- Cyberbullying and online harassment
- Inappropriate or upsetting content
- Account takeovers and hacking
- Malware and viruses
- Identity theft and privacy issues
- Online predators
- Excessive in-game spending
- Devoting too much time to gaming
