Abu Dhabi Police warn of cybercrimes targeting child gamers

Cybercriminals exploit the popularity of online games by spreading malicious software or intrusive ads disguised as game-related files, such as modifications or cheats. This often leads players to unknowingly download harmful files.

Among the most serious threats children face while gaming online is phishing, where cybercriminals create fake websites that closely resemble official game platforms or falsely claim to offer exclusive in-game items such as characters or virtual outfits.

Lures for youth and teenagers

In many cases, young players are prompted to enter personal or account information on these fraudulent websites, resulting in stolen accounts or financial data.

One of the most common tricks involves promises of rare items or in-game currency. Cybercriminals use these tactics to lure players into phishing pages, where they are asked to share account credentials or even financial details.

Abu Dhabi Police warned of online predators and criminals attempting to lure children during gaming sessions by offering virtual tools, gifts, or rewards. Parents were urged to educate their children about cybercrime risks, avoid talking to strangers online, and report any abuse or harassment in the virtual space.

Lt. Col. Hamad Hiyab Al Ketbi, Head of the Child Exploitation Crimes Section at the Criminal Investigation Directorate of Abu Dhabi Police, explained that five common cybercrimes may target children during online gaming:

1. Cyberbullying – including offensive messages and comments on social media or across the internet.

2. Cyber extortion – exploiting personal photos or information to threaten children.

3. Online luring – attempts by predators to manipulate or groom children.

4. Exposure to inappropriate content – such as extremist ideas or violent material.

5. Online fraud – including fake links, requests for personal data, or demands for money. 

Speaking on Abu Dhabi Police’s “Security and Safety” program, Al Ketbi stressed that while the internet is a valuable tool, children cannot be deprived of it out of fear. Instead, awareness and prevention are key, alongside teaching children how to act when exposed to cybercrimes — the most important steps being to report, block the offender, and stop engagement.

He also urged parents to monitor their children’s behavior and stay engaged with them to protect them from online crime, choosing age-appropriate games and setting clear usage limits.

Children’s behaviour may reveal criminal exploitation

Al Ketbi explained that parents can detect potential cybercrime incidents through changes in a child’s behavior — for example, a normally social child suddenly becoming withdrawn, displaying unusual irritability, hiding their screen, showing fear of using their phone, suffering from sleep disorders, anxiety, low self-confidence, or complaining about offensive direct messages.

He noted that most online games today are internet-based and particularly appealing during summer, making children more vulnerable to luring attempts through fake promises of in-game rewards.

Ensuring children’s safety, he stressed, is a shared responsibility of parents, teachers, and caregivers. Raising awareness of internet dangers — including extortion and abuse — is essential.

Al Ketbi highlighted the importance of parental controls on devices and applications, tracking the websites and games accessed by children, setting daily usage time limits, and supervising interactions — including whether children are using cameras and voice features while gaming.

Tasks of the child exploitation crimes section

The Child Exploitation Crimes Section at the Ministry of Interior is a specialized unit dedicated to protecting children from all forms of physical, psychological, and sexual abuse. Its role includes preventing such crimes through awareness, providing support to victims, and ensuring strong legal protection.

Key responsibilities:

• Receiving reports: Handling child abuse cases through various channels (hotline, internet, smart applications).

• Investigations: Conducting inquiries to collect evidence and identify perpetrators.

• Victim support: Providing psychological and legal assistance to abused children and helping them recover.

• Awareness and education: Promoting child rights and protection through awareness campaigns targeting children, families, and the community.

• Legislative development: Contributing to strengthening laws and regulations that protect children from all forms of violence and abuse.

• Collaboration: Coordinating with governmental and community partners to ensure comprehensive child protection services.

Contact channels:

• Ministry of Interior Hotline: 116111

• Ministry of Interior Website: (child protection section available online)

• “Hemayati” App: For reporting child abuse cases.

Important notes:

• All child abuse cases must be reported immediately through the available channels.

• Reports are handled with the highest confidentiality to ensure children’s safety.

• Continuous efforts are being made in the UAE to enhance child protection services.