Rising Risks: Crimes Against Children in Online Gaming Context

Japanese police have identified a rise in crimes against minors connected to online gaming. In 2024, 98 cases involved children, prompting warnings about the dangers of interaction with strangers. Authorities advise the use of parental controls and caution against sharing personal information as protective measures against potential exploitation.

Japanese police have reported a worrying trend: an increasing number of children are falling victim to crimes perpetrated by individuals they meet while playing online games. As per the National Police Agency, in 2024, a total of 1,486 minors under 18 were victims due to their use of social media, with online gaming involved in 98 cases, marking a rise of 9 from the previous year. More than half of these victims, 56, were junior high school students, with others including 22 elementary students and 18 high school students.

The police agency emphasizes that the anonymity offered by online games facilitates voice chats and text exchanges, thereby creating opportunities for potential criminals to exploit children’s friendships or admiration for skilled gamers. A case was noted in January this year where a 17-year-old high school student was lured by an acquaintance from online gaming to work for a telephone fraud operation in Myanmar.

To mitigate these risks, the police recommend that parents activate parental controls on their children’s social media accounts. They should additionally educate their children about the importance of not sharing contact information with strangers encountered on gaming platforms.

The alarming trend of children becoming victims of online crimes highlights the need for vigilance and preventive measures. With a significant number of minors affected through online gaming interactions, parents are urged to employ safety controls and have open discussions about the dangers of sharing personal information. The responsibility to safeguard children in digital spaces lies with both parents and the platforms hosting these games.

Original Source: www3.nhk.or.jp