Cyber Awareness Month 2025: How Online Gamers Are Falling Victim to Cybercriminals Disguised as Players

October is celebrated as Cyber Awareness Month, a campaign aimed at educating people about the growing threat of cybercrime. However, one of the most alarming forms of online crime today is emerging from an unexpected place — online gaming. What seems like harmless entertainment can often turn into a dangerous trap when cybercriminals disguise themselves as fellow players.

When Gaming Turns Dangerous

In many multiplayer and online games, cybercriminals participate under the guise of normal players. They use friendly conversations and game tips to win trust. Once they gain confidence, they begin extracting personal information such as names, schools, addresses, photos, or even bank details. In some cases, they pressure children into meeting offline or use abusive and threatening language during gameplay.

These criminals exploit the interactive and competitive nature of gaming to manipulate players — especially children and teenagers. The illusion of friendship or team spirit often lowers a player’s guard, making them vulnerable to exploitation.

Akshay Kumar’s Cautionary Revelation

During a Cyber Awareness Month 2025 event organized by Mumbai Police, Bollywood actor Akshay Kumar made a shocking revelation. Speaking at the event, which was also attended by Maharashtra’s Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis and senior police officials, Kumar shared a disturbing personal incident involving his 13-year-old daughter.

He revealed that while his daughter was playing an online video game, she received a message from an unknown player asking whether she was a boy or a girl. When she replied “girl,” the stranger immediately demanded her nude photos. Shocked, she closed the game and informed her mother, actor Twinkle Khanna. Akshay Kumar highlighted this as a serious example of how deeply cyber threats have infiltrated even children’s online experiences.

He further urged the government to introduce a dedicated Cyber Awareness Period in school curriculums so that children could be better equipped to recognize and avoid such dangers.

Common Tactics Used by Cybercriminals

Online predators in gaming communities use various tactics:

• Fake Friendships: They pretend to be friendly gamers, offering tips and guidance to build trust.

• Emotional Manipulation: Once trust is established, they begin asking for personal or intimate information.

• Financial Traps: Some players are coaxed into buying coins or game points, and are then asked for credit or debit card details.

• Intimidation and Abuse: Many criminals use threats or vulgar language to control or scare children into silence.

How to Stay Safe While Gaming Online

The government and cyber experts recommend a few essential precautions to ensure safety while gaming online:

Avoid Unsafe Downloads: Never download games from random links shared via email, WhatsApp, or social media.

Don’t Share Personal Details: Avoid sharing personal information like your name, school, address, age, or photos.

No Banking Information: Never disclose debit or credit card details during online gaming.

Be Wary of Voice and Video Chats: Disable webcam and voice chat options when playing with strangers.

Block and Report: If any player uses abusive language, demands photos, or threatens you — immediately block and report them.

Don’t Click Unknown Links: Many malicious links can steal your data or infect your device with malware.

What To Do in Case of Trouble

If someone falls victim to cyber harassment or any online gaming fraud, they should immediately report it on the official cybercrime portal — cybercrime.gov.in.
A toll-free helpline number 1930 is also available for assistance. In emergencies, calling 112 connects you directly with the police. It’s also advisable to inform parents or guardians and seek help from relevant authorities without hesitation.

Government Steps Toward Safer Gaming

To address the rising cases of gaming-related cybercrimes, the government has introduced new rules under the Online Gaming Bill. Stakeholders have been invited to submit feedback until October 31.

As per the proposed rules, an Online Gaming Authority will be formed comprising officials from multiple ministries. This body will determine whether a game qualifies as a social or real-money game. It will also regulate and register all e-sports platforms. No online game will be allowed to operate without registration, and companies will be required to submit compliance undertakings and set up grievance redressal committees.

Final Takeaway

The rise of online gaming has created a new playground for cybercriminals. While the government is tightening regulations, personal awareness remains the strongest line of defense. Parents must stay vigilant, and players — especially children — should be educated about potential risks.

Cyber safety begins with one simple rule: “Don’t trust every player you meet online.” Staying alert today can prevent digital dangers tomorrow.