OPINION

OPINION: How your kids are being targeted in online games

Aug 21, 2018, 6:25 AM | Updated: Aug 3, 2022, 2:58 pm

Do your kids play online video games like Fortnite, Grand Theft Auto or even Minecraft? They could be a target of online predators.

How do they do it?

Police in Michigan caution parents that child predators are using online games to meet up with kids in the real world after multiple reports surfaced.

“Predators will use every avenue possible to reach minor children and use a bait tactic to build trust and communicate with children of all ages,” officials said on the Lapeer County Sheriff’s Office Facebook page.

How can you keep your kids safe?  

  1. Have an open discussion with your kids about the dangers of meeting people from online in the real world.
  2. Disabling the chat function within the video game.
  3. If they’re not mature enough to handle video games, take away access to the game altogether.

JayMac News Show is usually hosted by KSL News Radio’s Jay McFarland, who also hosts the fictional podcast, Hosts of Eden. KSL News Radio is part of Bonneville Media and based in Salt Lake City, Utah. Don’t forget to review and subscribe to the JayMac Mac News Show podcast on iTunes. Or follow Jay on Twitter and Instagram @JayMacNewsShow or on Facebook at www.facebook.com/JayMacNewsShow/

We want to hear from you.

Have a story idea or tip? Send it to the KSL NewsRadio team here.

Opinion

'The Old Oak' might have a few f-bombs, but it's worth your time to see....

Steve Salles

KSL Movie Show review: ‘The Old Oak’ lays a roadmap for reconnecting communities

'The Old Oak' might have some f-bombs but it's worth your time, telling a tale of reconstructing country and our relationships with neighbors.

2 days ago

...

Steve Salles

KSL Movie Show review: Get ready to laugh and get excited with ‘The Fall Guy’

In this KSL Movie Show review, dive into "The Fall Guy," where a stuntman goes above and beyond to prove himself.

2 days ago

A bee arrives at a hive on the roof of the Warren Rudman U.S. Court House, Friday, May 5, 2023, in ...

Jeff Caplan

Jeff Caplan’s Minute of News: The New Honeybee Census

Is the honeybee still disappearing?

4 days ago

millsite state park sign shown, bucket biologists maybe threaten wildlife in the reservoir...

Tim Hughes

Bucket biologists threaten fish in Millsite Reservoir, don’t make the same mistake

Bucket biologists transport a species of fish from one lake to another, but be warned that this is dangerous and illegal.

5 days ago

ksl movie show host steve salles stands next to humane movie poster...

Steve Salles

KSL Movie Show review: ‘Humane’ is smart, and just horrifying enough

In this KSL Movie Show review, host Steve Salles explores "Humane," which presents a world in desperate need of less people.

9 days ago

CAPTCHA tests...

Jeff Caplan

Jeff Caplan’s Minute of News: It’s getting harder to prove you’re human

I don't know if you've noticed lately, but CAPTCHA tests are getting harder. 

9 days ago

Sponsored Articles

a doctor putting her hand on the chest of her patient...

Intermountain Health

Intermountain nurse-midwives launch new gynecology access clinic

An access clinic launched by Intermountain nurse-midwives provides women with comprehensive gynecology care.

Young couple hugging while a realtor in a suit hands them keys in a new home...

Utah Association of Realtors

Buying a home this spring? Avoid these 5 costly pitfalls

By avoiding these pitfalls when buying a home this spring, you can ensure your investment will be long-lasting and secure.

a person dressed up as a nordic viking in a dragon boat resembling the bear lake monster...

Bear Lake Convention and Visitors Bureau

The Legend of the Bear Lake Monster

The Bear Lake monster has captivated people in the region for centuries, with tales that range from the believable to the bizarre.

...

Live Nation Concerts

All the artists coming to Utah First Credit Union Amphitheatre (formerly USANA Amp) this summer

Summer concerts are more than just entertainment; they’re a celebration of life, love, and connection.

Mother and cute toddler child in a little fancy wooden cottage, reading a book, drinking tea and en...

Visit Bear Lake

How to find the best winter lodging in Bear Lake, Utah

Winter lodging in Bear Lake can be more limited than in the summer, but with some careful planning you can easily book your next winter trip.

Happy family in winter clothing at the ski resort, winter time, watching at mountains in front of t...

Visit Bear Lake

Ski more for less: Affordable ski resorts near Bear Lake, Utah

Plan your perfect ski getaway in Bear Lake this winter, with pristine slopes, affordable tickets, and breathtaking scenery.

OPINION: How your kids are being targeted in online games