Today, TIGA is marking Safer Internet Day and the work that needs to be done to ensure that children and adults are protected from online harm.
TIGA has published 5 Principles for Safeguarding Players, which outline standards that should be followed to ensure the protection of children and adults online.
- Protecting children
Take particular care in the design of games that are likely to appeal to children and provide the necessary tools and information about content for parents and guardians to enable them to manage all aspects of their children’s enjoyment of games.
- Treating consumers fairly
Deal with players as consumers in a fair manner at all times, in addition to complying with all relevant marketing, advertising and consumer protection law.
- Safeguarding online communities
Make every effort to ensure that online communities and interactions are safe and do not expose players to harm.
- Respecting personal data
Take appropriate and proportionate measures to fulfil the seven data protection principles under the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) and comply with all other relevant data protection laws to ensure that players’ rights to personal data privacy are respected.
- Spending and time management
Enable players to manage the amount of time and money spent on games through appropriate design and proportionate measures.
Dr Richard Wilson OBE, CEO of TIGA said:
“TIGA has drawn up 5 Principles for Safeguarding Players to promote the well-being of adults and children online. Games businesses that adhere to these Principles will demonstrate their commitment to their players’ wellbeing and contribute to the safety of children and adults online.”