Watch out! Your kids may not be safe online this summer, Dubai authorities warn parents

TL;DR

• Kids spend more time on gaming apps during summer, raising cybercrime risks.
• Dubai Police urge parents to take a more hands-on role in supervising digital habits.
• Parental controls , content awareness, and honest conversations are key to safety.

When school’s out, screens are in. In the UAE, summer means longer hours indoors, and for many kids, that translates to more time spent playing video games online. While this might seem harmless at first glance, Dubai Police are raising serious concerns. The Cybercrime Department is warning that the summer surge in screen time also increases the risk of online threats, fraud, cyberbullying, exposure to inappropriate content, and even contact with predators. And it doesn’t take much. A simple in-game chat or click on a message can open the door to danger.

That’s why authorities are calling on parents to get more involved. Not later, now. Children aren’t always equipped to handle the risks of unsupervised digital play. So parental guidance isn’t just helpful, it’s necessary. This isn’t about fear. It’s about being aware, staying present, and knowing how to act.

What’s the Risk?

Why Gaming Isn’t Always Just Fun and Games

Strangers in Disguise: Online games often come with chat features or message boards. These can be used by adults pretending to be kids. Some may try to get personal details, others might build trust before exploiting it.

Fraud and Extortion: Dubai Police report cases where children are tricked into sharing personal photos or private info. Scammers may then use this to blackmail or manipulate them.

Cyberbullying and Mental Health: Toxic online environments can leave kids stressed, anxious, or feeling isolated. For some, gaming addiction becomes a real issue, affecting sleep, grades, and relationships.

What Parents Can Actually Do

Turn On Parental Controls: Most devices and games have built-in safety settings. Use them. They help block harmful content, limit in-game purchases, and manage chat features.

Set Time Limits That Stick: Not every hour online is bad, but balance matters. Choose clear time frames for gaming and stick to them. Set boundaries that allow for breaks, reading, or physical play.

Know the Games They Play: Before saying yes to a download, check the age rating and reviews. Some games appear child-friendly but include violent or explicit content or allow strangers to connect directly.

Keep the Conversation Open: Talk to your kids. Ask who they’re playing with. Let them know it’s okay to come to you if something online makes them uncomfortable.

Offer Real-World Alternatives: Organize time for hobbies, books, outings, or summer activities. Kids turn to screens when there’s nothing else to do.

Where to Report or Learn More
If you think your child has been exposed to online threats, don’t wait. Dubai Police offer multiple ways to report or seek guidance:

e-Crime Platform: https://ecrimehub.gov.ae/ar

Phone Support: Call 901

Dubai Police App or official website

You can also find bilingual resources (Arabic & English) on the platform, tailored for parents, kids, and even business users, to help you understand and prevent cybercrime.

FAQ

• 1. What signs should I look for if my child is being targeted online?

Changes in mood, secrecy about gaming, withdrawal, or sudden anxiety around devices can all be signs something’s off. Stay observant.

• 2. Are all video games dangerous?

No. Many are safe and even educational. The issue is with unsupervised play, access to chat features, and games that aren’t age-appropriate.

• 3. What if my child already shared something online by mistake?

Stay calm. Let them know they’re not in trouble. Report the issue immediately through Dubai Police’s e-Crime platform or call 901 for help.