In the last few years, many such incidents have come to light which have clearly shown the dangers of task-based online games. The Blue Whale Challenge once seriously affected the mental health of children and teens, and now new digital gaming platforms are doing the same thing, especially games like Roblox. Similar concerns are arising regarding this. Even though the era of Blue Whale is over, the danger of such games still remains.
The biggest problem of these task-based games is that children are given tasks at increasing levels which are risky. Many times these tasks are related to self-harm or dangerous activities.
Such games run secretly and attract children by creating psychological pressure. Especially those children who are going through loneliness, stress or emotional distress.
Psychologists say that many children do not understand the consequences of these games properly. Experts say, ‘The secrecy pattern and group pressure of these games keeps children away from the family, which further increases their danger.’
Increased concern about Roblox
Roblox is a popular gaming platform where children create and play in their own virtual worlds. But recently several reports have surfaced in which children have been exposed to unwanted messages, inappropriate content, and risky user-generated challenges. Although parental controls are present on the platform, the lack of monitoring still raises many questions.
Social workers say that ‘awareness and prevention are the strongest way to avoid these hidden online dangers.’
Experts advise how to protect children?
- Talk to children regularly about their online activities.
- Monitor gameplay and keep parental controls on.
- Strengthen privacy settings.
- Explain to children that they should not share their personal information with any unknown person.
- Ask them to report any uncomfortable interactions immediately.
- Limit screen time and encourage children for offline activities.
Experts say that spending time in offline interests increases emotional strength in children, which makes them better able to face such threats.
What to do if danger is suspected?
If the family feels that the child is involved in any dangerous online challenge, immediately seek professional help and inform cybercrime authorities.
Although platforms and law-enforcement agencies are working to remove such harmful content, experts believe that the most effective protection is the active participation of parents.
