The widespread appeal of online games among children is undeniable, but this popularity presents significant risks. A heart-wrenching incident in Lucknow, India, highlights these dangers. A 13-year-old boy committed suicide after losing 13 lakh rupees (approximately 1.3 million) in the Free Fire game using his father’s account. This tragic incident emphasizes the crucial importance of parents taking proactive steps to secure their mobile phones if children have access. These safety measures are vital for both the family’s finances and the children’s safety and well-being.
**The Details of the Incident:**
The 14-year-old boy, a sixth-grade student, regularly played Free Fire on his father’s phone. Driven by the desire to win in-game rewards, he spent a significant 13 lakh rupees from his father’s account. When the father attempted to withdraw money from his bank, the financial loss was discovered. While the father tried to address the situation, the child, feeling overwhelmed by the consequences, tragically took his own life.
**Recommended Mobile Phone Settings for Parents:**
* **Set Limits on Bank Accounts and UPI Transactions:** If your child has access to your phone, carefully set limits on your bank accounts and UPI transactions. This prevents overspending.
* **Activate Parental Controls:** Android and iPhone devices provide parental control features. Use these to limit your child’s access to approved content only.
* **Block In-App Purchases:** Before letting your child use your phone, block in-app purchases within games. Enable password confirmation for all purchases from the Google Play Store and App Store.
* **Create Robust Passwords:** Secure banking and UPI apps with strong passwords. Consider using biometric locks like fingerprint or facial recognition.