Internet criminals exploit the popularity of electronic games by offering malicious software or annoying ads disguised as game-related files, such as mods or cheats, causing players to unknowingly download harmful files. Among the most dangerous threats facing children while playing online is phishing, where criminals create fake pages resembling official game sites or claiming to offer exclusive in-game items like characters or virtual clothes. Often, young players are asked to enter their personal or account information on these pages, leading to theft of their accounts or financial data. Common tricks include promises of rare items or in-game currency to lure players to phishing pages where they are asked for account or financial details.

Abu Dhabi Police warned about online predators and harassers who lure children during gameplay by offering virtual rewards and urged parents to educate their children about cybercrime risks, avoid talking to strangers, and report any abuse or harassment in the virtual world. Major cybercrimes targeting children during online gaming include cyberbullying, blackmail, grooming, access to inappropriate content, and online fraud. Abu Dhabi Police emphasize that the internet is a useful technology that children should not be deprived of, but they must be educated on how to report and stop interacting with offenders. Parents are urged to monitor their children’s behavior, protect them from cybercrimes, choose age-appropriate games, and use parental controls to track device usage and online interactions.