Online Friends
Everyone who plays multiplayer games is your friend. True or False
False: People might try to be your friend by trying to earn your trust. Scammers and predators may pretend to be kids themselves, share tips on how to win, or give gifts like points or virtual goods.
What are some unfair ways a gamer might play?
Some gamers play to bully, taunt and harass others with bad language, cheat, or inappropriate attacks.
Avoiding negativity and toxic behavior, and focusing on building a positive and inclusive environment will help you make healthy friendships when gaming. True or False
True
Is it safe to download games from any site?
Good downloads may carry bad content; downloading games from non-reputable sites through links may also download offensive content, spam, or malicious software.
Someone is bullying, harassing, or sending inappropriate messages.
Block them, report them to the game's moderators and a trusted adult.
Everyone tells the truth about who they are when gaming.
NO some people, like adults, will pretend to be children as a way to harm or scam children.
It is okay to be hurtful and rude to others who are hurtful to you. True or False
FALSE: Treat other players with courtesy, even if you disagree with their strategies or behavior.
What are three steps in making friends when gaming?
Remember usernames, reach out when you see them online, and make plans to play together.
Sharing your address, phone number, or other private details with strangers online.
NEVER
Someone has asked for your personal information, requested pictures of you or is using hurtful language.
Report them immediately
Is it possible to make an online friend?
Yes as long as you follow safe gaming rules and share anything that makes you uncomfortable with a trusted adult.
It is okay to use slurs, insults, or profanity in multiplayer games. True or False
False
Demanding friends play only the games you like, even after they say "no" will help you keep friends.
No, being flexible and playing games that others like will help you keep friends. Otherwise they will get board or frustrated and not want to play with you anymore.
You make plans to meet up with an online friend without your parents knowing because you were worried they would say no?
NO, if your parents say no, it may be because it is not safe.
You should feel bad for blocking someone who makes you feel uncomfortable.
NO! There is no shame in a strong blocking game.
What level of friendship would someone be after playing an online game with them only a few times?
An acquaintance. Friendships take time to develop, especially if you are playing virtually and may not know who they really are.
What are some ways to show good sportsmanship when gaming?
Embrace fair play, accept wins and losses gracefully, and avoid making negative comments about other players.
What helps build online friends? ]Being flexible when engaging in games that require teamwork and collaboration or controlling others or taking over game play?
Be flexible and work as a team by incorporating everyone's ideas, even if you feel your idea is better.
When playing online with a stranger, it is a good idea to game in disguise? True or False
True
An online friend asks to meet up in person.
Talk to your parents, even if you think they might say no.
Someone demands they will only be your friend if you play the games they like. Is this a healthy friendship?
No, someone who wants to be your friend will be flexible and play games you both like or that include your interest, not just theirs.
If you do not agree with someone, it is okay to use hurtful language.
No, Even if you don't agree, try to understand their perspectives.
Setting boundaries when playing with others will lead to healthy friendships.
Yes and anyone who doesn't respect your boundaries doesn't deserve your friendship. Know your worth!
What are some ways you can game in disguise.
Don’t use your first or last name in your usernames. Use an avatar instead your actual photo. If a stranger asks you to share a photo or to turn on your webcam, refuse. They don't need to see you to play with you.
You played with someone who was kind and now they ask for your address and birthday to send you a gift in the mail.
Thank them for their kindness and explain you are not comfortable with sharing your personal information.