Matthew Kinney loves to play online video games with his sons. What he doesn't love? What his kids are hearing from the other players.
"Language that would make a sailor blush," Kinney said.
"Not surprising," says Kevin Roberts, author of the book Cyber Junkie, considering the average gamer is 33 years old.
He says when your child takes the game online-and players start interacting, all content ratings go out the window.
"Incredible levels of profanity. Racial epithets, homosexually- oriented epithets. We're talking 8, 9, 10, 11 year old kids who are getting exposed to this regularly," said Roberts, a cyber addiction counselor.
Internet safety expert Parry Aftab says this inappropriate language in online gaming is rampant. She's concerned it's leading to dangerous cyber bullying.
"They may trash talking, they may be calling you names. They may steal their passwords. Or a lot of them may gang up on one online. Not because it's a good strategic win, but to hurt the other person," said Aftab.
Game companies attempt to combat these issues with on box warnings, parental controls, and special task squads.
"They have an Xbox Live enforcement squad that is one of the best enforcement groups looking for rooming activities and online sexual predators, as well as cyber bullying," Aftab said.
But parental involvement is still key. Roberts recommends you start by learning what you're up against.
"Play the games. Talk to your kids about the games, get involved in it," Roberts said.
Also, ask your child to unplug the headphones and turn up the speakers so you can hear exactly what's being said.
"Don't let your kid go up to his bedroom, close his door, and sit there and play all night. That's crazy. You have no idea what's going on, who's saying what," Kinney said.
And teach them to take an active role against bullies.
"Tell them to block the person or the message. And then they need to come and you. Tell a trusted adult," Aftab said.
As for Matthew, he believes his pro-active parenting allows the kids to enjoy the games while still staying safe.
"You teach them the best you can, and there have been times when they'll disconnect. It like it just gets too bad and they know better," Kinney said.
