Beyond The Game: 9 Online Games Kids Are Playing That Expose Them To Predators

For many kids, online games are more than just entertainment—they’re social spaces, creative outlets, and sometimes a second home. But lurking behind those avatars and usernames can be people with far more dangerous intentions. Many online games kids are playing today come with unmoderated chat functions or open forums, making it easy for predators to make contact and build false trust. Even the most innocent-seeming platforms can be breeding grounds for inappropriate messages, grooming behavior, or manipulation. Knowing which games carry these risks is the first step to protecting your child without taking away the fun.

1. Roblox

Roblox is one of the most popular online games kids are playing, but its vast network of user-created games makes it hard to regulate. While many experiences are harmless, others allow open chat where strangers can engage with children. There have been numerous reports of inappropriate language, solicitations, and even attempts at grooming. Parents can activate parental controls, but many kids bypass them or don’t understand the risk. Supervision and communication are key when your child spends time in Roblox’s virtual worlds.

2. Fortnite

With its vibrant visuals and fast-paced action, Fortnite has millions of young players globally. But its in-game voice and text chat can expose kids to interactions with adults pretending to be fellow gamers. Predators often use these channels to build relationships under the radar. Fortnite also encourages long play sessions, increasing the chance for ongoing contact. It remains one of the riskiest online games kids are playing if parental controls aren’t actively used.

3. Minecraft (Public Servers)

Minecraft’s offline mode is safe, but public servers can be a different story. On these open platforms, players of all ages interact freely, often with no age verification. Some predators create fake servers designed specifically to lure kids in with promises of rare items or secret content. These areas are less moderated and can include disturbing or inappropriate behavior. Be cautious of which servers your child accesses and encourage them to stick to ones you’ve reviewed together.

4. Among Us

While Among Us seems lighthearted and simple, its chat feature creates room for risky interactions. The anonymous nature of the game lets players connect with strangers quickly. While the conversations are usually centered around gameplay, it doesn’t take much for someone to shift the tone. Mods and private servers often have fewer restrictions, increasing the danger. Despite its cartoon style, it’s one of the online games kids are playing that still requires oversight.

5. Discord (Game Chat Integration)

Discord isn’t a game itself, but it’s commonly used by gamers to communicate while playing. Many online games kids are playing connect directly to Discord, opening unfiltered, real-time conversations. While there are options to set servers to private, many children are invited to public ones where predators pose as peers. Grooming often starts with harmless conversation before escalating into something much more serious. It’s crucial to monitor your child’s Discord use and teach them how to block and report inappropriate users.

6. VRChat

As virtual reality grows in popularity, VRChat has become a go-to for immersive gaming. However, it’s known for its lack of moderation and explicit content. Predators use avatars to approach kids and start inappropriate conversations under the guise of fun. The immersive nature of VR can make the interaction feel more personal, blurring boundaries. It’s one of the more extreme examples of online games kids are playing that can be especially dangerous without supervision.

7. IMVU

IMVU allows players to create avatars and engage in role-playing, chatting, and online dating. While marketed to teens, younger kids often join due to its social appeal and fashion-based features. Conversations can quickly turn inappropriate, with many adult users seeking young participants. The game’s structure makes it easy to fake age and identity. If your child is exploring IMVU, they need to be aware of how to spot and shut down questionable behavior.

8. Omegle (Game Connection Claim)

Omegle is not a game, but it’s often advertised to kids through social platforms as a fun way to “game chat” with strangers. Kids are led to believe it’s part of the broader world of online games that kids are playing. In reality, Omegle connects them with random strangers via video or text, many of whom expose them to explicit content. The site has very little content moderation and is a hotspot for predators. Make sure your child knows Omegle is not safe—no matter what they see on TikTok.

9. Rec Room

Rec Room is a social gaming platform that includes mini-games, virtual hangouts, and creative spaces. It allows real-time voice chat and public room access, which can quickly lead to unwanted contact. The immersive environments encourage interaction with avatars that may be pretending to be kids. Inappropriate language and even harassment are common in unsupervised areas. Rec Room is rising in popularity among the online games kids are playing, but it comes with very real concerns.

Keeping Gaming Fun and Safe

Not all online gaming is bad. In fact, many platforms provide great opportunities for kids to learn, problem-solve, and connect. But as online games kids are playing become more socially integrated, so do the risks. The solution isn’t banning games but building awareness, setting clear boundaries, and keeping open conversations flowing. Equip your child with the confidence and tools to recognize unsafe behavior and speak up. Safety starts with knowledge, not fear.

Which games are your kids currently into? Have you had any safety concerns with them? Let us know in the comments—we’d love to hear your take.

Digital Safety: 6 Steps to Safeguard Your Child’s Online Identity

Catherine Reed

Catherine is a tech-savvy writer who has focused on the personal finance space for more than eight years. She has a Bachelor’s in Information Technology and enjoys showcasing how tech can simplify everyday personal finance tasks like budgeting, spending tracking, and planning for the future. Additionally, she’s explored the ins and outs of the world of side hustles and loves to share what she’s learned along the way. When she’s not working, you can find her relaxing at home in the Pacific Northwest with her two cats or enjoying a cup of coffee at her neighborhood cafe.