LEAGUE OF LEGENDS
LEAGUE OF LEGENDS
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Minimum age 16+
What is it? League of Legends (LoL) is an online multiplayer game in which players team up to compete in matches against other players or AI. It features real-time strategy, character customisation, and an in-game chat system. What we say? Treat with caution, especially for younger players. 🔞Exposure to Inappropriate Content While LoL does not host user-generated game content, its in-game chat system and public matches can expose players to offensive or inappropriate language. The gaming community is known for instances of toxicity, with verbal abuse and harassment being common. Parents should enable chat filters and monitor interactions. 💬 Direct Messaging LoL allows players to message each other in-game and via the Riot client. Strangers can send friend requests and communicate privately, which can be a risk for younger players who might share personal information. 💸 In-Game Purchases LoL includes microtransactions for skins, characters, and other cosmetic items. Without parental controls, children may make unexpected purchases. 🧑💻 Online Predators & Grooming While League of Legends (LoL) is less focused on social interaction, it still poses risks of online predators and grooming through its communication features. Predators may use private messaging, in-game chat, or fake profiles to build trust, often posing as peers or teammates. They might exploit the game’s team-based dynamics to offer advice or mentorship, potentially moving conversations to private chats or external platforms. 🔓Scams & Account Theft Players may encounter phishing attempts or fake offers, such as free skins or in-game currency (RP), which can lead to account theft. It's crucial to teach children not to click on suspicious links. 📱 Cyberbullying and Harassment Toxic behavior is a well-documented issue in League of Legends. Players often experience aggressive or hurtful comments in chat, particularly when games don’t go well. This can affect mental health and enjoyment. |
Safety Tips:
Enable Privacy Settings: Adjust privacy settings to restrict friend requests and messages from strangers. Use Riot Games' tools to block or mute inappropriate players. Monitor Gameplay: Regularly check your child’s account for suspicious messages, unusual friend requests, or interactions that seem concerning. Educate on Safe Online Behaviour: Teach children never to share personal information (e.g., name, address, or phone number) in chat or with teammates, even if they seem friendly. Encourage Reporting: Familiarise your child with the in-game reporting system to flag inappropriate behavior, harassment, or suspicious activity. Limit Voice Chat: Discourage the use of external voice chat platforms like Discord unless it's with trusted friends, and supervise interactions when possible. Set Spending Limits: To prevent unexpected purchases, disable or monitor in-game microtransactions and discuss responsible spending habits. Discuss Toxicity and Bullying: Prepare your child to handle negative interactions by muting toxic players and avoiding retaliation. Encourage them to talk to you if they feel upset or targeted. Play Together: Consider playing League of Legends with your child to better understand the game’s mechanics and social features, making it easier to spot potential risks. By staying involved and maintaining open communication, parents can help ensure a safer and more enjoyable experience for their child in League of Legends. 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. |
