Online Gaming: Beyond Stereotypes and Towards Safety
Contrary to popular perception, online gaming is not just a pastime for teenage boys. In the U.S., nearly half of American adults have played video games, and about 10% consider themselves “gamers.” Unfortunately, online harassment is a significant issue, with many players experiencing it, sometimes even extending into their real lives. It’s crucial that individuals joining online gaming communities are not isolated due to online harassment. Survivors of domestic violence, sexual assault, and stalking may face additional privacy concerns when engaging in online spaces. However, there are ways to enhance privacy and safety while gaming online.
Online Gaming Basics
Online games encompass a variety of genres, including sports, shooter, simulation, adventure, real-time strategy, role-playing, and educational games. These games often have their own lingo used in player chats. While many games still use traditional handheld controllers, some require full-body movement or virtual reality (VR) through goggles. Some games blend with real life through augmented reality (AR), overlaying game-related information as users navigate the real world.
The level of anonymity in online gaming varies by platform. Users can create screen names and avatars, and they often have control over what personal or contact information they share. However, privacy and safety concerns may escalate in VR or AR environments, where games might link a player’s online presence to a physical location.
Privacy and Safety Risks
Young adults, particularly young women, face high rates of online harassment. Individuals from marginalized groups are also more likely to experience harassment. The #GamerGate controversy highlighted severe online harassment in gaming, with female gamers reporting threats, stalking, and doxing (posting private contact information online).
Online harassment, threats, and abuse should be taken seriously as they can be traumatizing and may include financial crime or identity theft. Victims often face efforts to ruin their reputations and drive them out of online communities. If enough identifying information is available, online abuse can become an offline threat. Women and survivors are more likely to find online harassment extremely distressing.
Potential Benefits for Survivors
Online gaming can offer connection opportunities, especially with people sharing common interests. Some games have large, long-standing user bases, fostering a sense of community. Survivors wary of in-person meetings or who prefer to control their online identity may find comfort and flexibility in online gaming. Everyone should be able to participate in these activities without harassment or abuse.
Strategies to Increase Privacy and Safety
The primary responsibility for stopping online harassment lies with those misusing technology. Game developers and companies can also counter online abuse and promote good behavior. As the International Gaming Developer Association states, “The onus is on harassers and their communities to discourage harassment and report harassing behavior when it is observed. You have a right to work, speak, create, and exist in a space free of harassment and the threat of harassment.”
Gamers and survivors can consider the following steps to enhance their safety and privacy:
- Create Secure Accounts: Use usernames that don’t include real names or identifiable information. Avoid sharing personal or contact details.
- Separate Information: Use different email addresses, profile pictures, and strong passwords for gaming. Keeping this information separate helps avoid doxing.
- Online Presence Check: Regularly search for yourself online or use privacy checking services to see what information is available about you.
- Be Cautious with Links and Attachments: They may contain spyware or malware.
- Trust Your Instincts: If you feel uncomfortable, it’s okay to cease contact.
For AR games or real-life meetups, consider additional precautions:
- Inform a Friend: Let someone know where you are going and when you’ll return.
- Leave Information: Share the meet-up location and details.
- Familiarize Yourself: Know the meeting spot ahead of time and ensure it’s somewhere you feel comfortable.
- Watch for Scams: Be wary of people asking for money under various pretenses.
- End Sessions Early: If it doesn’t feel safe or fun, trust your instincts and cut the session short.
Collecting Evidence
Survivors of online harassment and abuse may choose to report their experiences to gaming platforms or legal authorities. Digital evidence from hardware, internet providers, and gaming servers may be available. Consider documenting incidents with pictures, screenshots, or other relevant information. Refer to documentation tips and sample logs for detailed guidance.
Online harassment and abuse can fall under various crimes. To learn more about your state’s laws on online harassment, visit WomensLaw.org.
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