Predators Approach Kids Through Video Games

If you've never heard of Runescape, then you're probably a grownup.

The online video game is aimed at children.

But parents and computer software designers have found that anyone can lie and pretend to be a kid in the fantasy game. And with the latest video games offering instant messaging and voice chats between players, predators have all the more ways to reach kids.

The consequences of that behavior can be horrifying.

In Michigan, a 54-year-old man was arrested after he met a 13-year-old girl on Runescape, where he fictionalized his gaming persona. He also then convinced her to meet him at an area motel, and sexually assaulted her, authorities say.

Sheriff Benny Napoleon, in Michigan's Wayne County, calls it "just despicable."

Lance Ulanoff of PCmag.com recommends that families get parental control software.

"You never know who your kids are talking to when they're playing these games," said Ulanoff .

Programs like Net Nanny can prevent your kids from typing in their addresses, their phone numbers, even their ages.

The protection allows law-abiding gamers to continue doing what they enjoy: joining up with other video game players on virtual adventures or "quests."

"Interacting with the community and other players is the biggest part and sometimes the main part of the game," Ulanoff said.

Others tell NBC New York that some gamers spend so much time playing games, especially the more modern console games like Xbox 360 or Playstation 3, that they develop real friendships with their fellow players. 

In addition to parental control software, computer security experts suggest parents keep their kids' computers in the living room, so they can watch what's going on.

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