E-Safety Challenge College

Learning Objectives To summarise electronic games which allow access to the Internet and assess the Internet Safety aspects

Multiplayer games online When playing games you may want to connect to the internet and play with multiplayer's’ (more than one person). What are multiplayer games? ◦ Many computer and video games can be played online against other players over the internet. This is good fun and human players are better competition than a computer-controlled opponent. ◦ However, to make the multiplayer games work, players are allowed to communicate, sometimes using text messages typed into the computer and sometimes, using a microphone, more like a telephone conversation. ◦ Many games include these features, from simple chess and card games through first-person shooting games to adventure games where thousands of players are in the game world at the same time. ◦ They share many of the attributes of online chat forums: ◦ Players can communicate with text messages or using voice.

What are the risks? You may give away private information, such as a password or address. Downloading cheat programs which claim to help you play better but which, in fact, contain viruses or damage your computer. All the dangers of online chat. ◦ Anonymous strangers. ◦ Uncensored, unfiltered discussions.

Protecting yourself Choose a user name that does not reveal any personal information. Similarly, if your game includes the ability to create a personal profile, make sure you don’t give away any personal information. Use strong passwords (letters, numbers and symbols) Don’t reveal any personal information to other players. Make sure you keep the game software up to date. Most multiplayer games automatically update themselves before letting you connect. Be very wary about downloading any unauthorised program relating to the game. If you do play in a multiplayer game make sure you tell your parents.

Activity Complete the activity grid on page 14 of the booklet’s ‘game’ section