Japanese police report an increase in children victimized through online gaming, with 1,486 minors affected in 2024. The agency highlights the risks tied to online relationships formed via games and advises parental controls to mitigate these dangers.
The National Police Agency in Japan has reported a concerning rise in crimes targeting children who engage with individuals through online games. In 2024, 1,486 minors under 18 became crime victims due to social media usage, with 98 of these incidents linked specifically to online gaming, marking an increase from the previous year. The majority of victims, over half, were junior high students, followed by elementary students and high schoolers.
The police agency highlighted that the anonymity of online gaming allows for easy voice chats and text exchanges, fostering friendships that can be exploited by criminals. For instance, a 17-year-old high school student was persuaded by an online acquaintance to travel abroad for a job, ultimately leading him to work for a fraudulent telephone operation in Myanmar.
To address these risks, the police recommend parents activate parental controls on their children’s social media accounts and caution them against sharing personal information with unknown individuals in gaming environments. This proactive approach is crucial in safeguarding children from potential threats encountered in online gaming contexts.
In summary, the growing association between online gaming and juvenile crime victimization in Japan necessitates heightened awareness and preventive measures. The rise in reported incidents prompts parents to implement stricter controls and educate their children about the inherent risks of online interactions. By taking these actions, we can better protect minors from the dangers posed by online gaming environments.
Original Source: www3.nhk.or.jp
