FIFA26
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MINIMUM AGE: 3+
WHAT IS IT? FC26 refers to the latest installment in EA Sports' football video game series, previously known as FIFA. After EA Sports and FIFA ended their partnership, the game was rebranded as EA Sports FC. The 2026 edition is called EA Sports FC 26. WHAT WE SAY: Safe, but discuss safety tips with children. ✅ POSITIVE THEMES
⚠️ KEY CONCERNS 🔞 Access to Inappropriate ContentWhile EA Sports FC 26 is rated for ages 3+, its online multiplayer modes expose players to real-time interactions that may include inappropriate language, aggressive behavior, or themes unsuitable for younger children. User-generated content and community chat can sometimes contain offensive or unsporting conduct. 💬 In-Game Communication Players can communicate through text and voice chat in online modes such as Clubs and FUT. This opens risks of exposure to bullying, offensive language, or unwanted contact from strangers. Though EA uses chat filters and moderation tools, no system is perfect, and some harmful messages may get through. 📱 Cyberbullying & Toxic BehaviourCompetitive online environments may lead to toxic behaviour including harassment, trash-talking, or social exclusion. These interactions can negatively affect a child’s enjoyment and mental wellbeing. Encouraging respectful play and monitoring gaming time can help mitigate this. 🧑💻 Online Predators & GroomingSocial features mean players might encounter strangers during gameplay. EA implements moderation and reporting systems, but parents should supervise younger players closely to protect against potential grooming or exploitation attempts. 📢 Account Security & Age Verification Creating an EA account for FC 26 requires only minimal information, which may be falsified. Without parental controls, younger players might access features or purchase content intended for older users. Parents should enable parental controls on devices and encourage strong passwords and two-factor authentication for account protection. 💸 In-Game Purchases & Microtransactions The game offers in-game purchases such as cosmetic items, packs, or FIFA Ultimate Team cards, which require real money. Players—especially younger ones—may be vulnerable to impulsive spending or peer pressure. 🔓 Scams & Account Theft Phishing scams, fake offers, or third-party cheats can lead to account compromise or theft of in-game assets. Players should avoid sharing login details and only use official platforms. 🧠 Addiction & Mental Health The immersive and competitive nature of FC 26 can encourage long play sessions. Excessive gaming may lead to frustration, stress, or anxiety, especially related to progression and in-game purchases. 📢 Lack of Moderation Despite EA’s efforts to moderate online interactions, some inappropriate content, toxic behaviour, or harassment may slip through filters and reporting systems. Players can be exposed to offensive language, bullying, or cheating, which can affect the overall gaming experience. |
🛡️SAFETY TIPS:
📲Understand the game Familiarise yourself with the games features and how they work. Knowing how the app works will help you guide your child effectively. 👨👧Parental supervision Check their interactions and adjust privacy settings accordingly. 💸Limit In-App Purchases Set spending limits or disable in-app purchases on your device to avoid accidental or excessive spending. 🚨Avoid Unofficial Downloads Stick to downloading the game from official sources (like the App Store or Google Play) to avoid malware, data breaches, or compromised versions. 📢Underage Accounts This game might have an age restriction but it lacks a proper age verification process. Therefore, there’s little stopping users from faking their dates of birth or creating bogus profiles and targeting children and young people. 👥Manage friend requests Teach your child only to accept friend requests from people they know in real life. 📷 Cover the Webcam When Not in Use Physically cover your camera when you're not ready to go live. Always be mindful of what’s visible in your background—it can reveal location clues. 🧠 Trust Your Instincts If something feels uncomfortable, it is uncomfortable. Leave the chat immediately and don’t engage with users who seem suspicious, aggressive, or inappropriate. 🖥️ Place Devices in Shared Spaces Keep internet-connected devices in living rooms or kitchens, not bedrooms. This makes risky behaviour less likely and easier to notice. 🙋♀️Conversations: Have open discussions with children and young people about the topics associated with online use - bullying, grooming, sexual and criminal exploitation, body image, as well as accessing support and how to report. 🚨 Know the Signs of Trouble Watch for behaviour changes—like anxiety, secrecy, mood swings, or suddenly deleting apps. These can signal something inappropriate happened online. FURTHER SUPPORT: For parents/ carers If you're worried about your child or need support call NSPCC helpline on 0808 800 5000. If you discover criminal content when online then report it directly to the police or the Internet Watch Foundation. If you're worried about online grooming or sexual behaviour online then report directly to the police or contact CEOP. For Children & young people if they're worried or want to talk, encourage them to contact Childline Online or call 0800 1111. Check out our Resource Centre for further information and useful online safety tips. 
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