Websites offering free games and puzzles aimed at children could increasingly be targeted by hackers trying to gain access to vulnerable computers according to research from an anti-virus company. 

Figures from Avast suggest more than 60 sites with either game or arcade in the title they checked appeared to contain some type of threat such as malware. The company suggests that youngsters’ online behaviour of impulsively clicking on objects or graphics could make them an easy target. 

Many online games sites provide simple, fun games funded by advertising so users can simply visit the site and play for free. They are also a great way for children to challenge friends or entertain themselves. So to avoid security risks consider taking the following steps:-

• Educate your children in how to stay safe online. Discuss with them of the kinds of dangers and how to protect themselves.
• Check if the site or software your child uses has built-in parental control settings or safeguards and if so, activate them.
• Use anti-virus software and update it at least daily or each time your computer is switched on.
• Advise your child not to open email attachments or messages from anyone they don’t know, as they may contain a virus or unsuitable content.
• Only download software from reputable sources. Free games and screensavers might be hiding malicious software.

You can watch videos covering a whole range of cybercrime issues on our YouTube channel. There is also a lot more advice in our online guides to online gaming, online safety, and avoiding cybercrime.