Online gaming is facing increasing scrutiny as experts warn of its potential behavioural and psychological impact on children, including addiction, interaction with strangers, and excessive in-game spending.

According to Sri Lanka Computer Emergency Readiness Team (SLCERT) Senior Information Security Engineer Charuka Damunupola, the shift from offline gaming to online platforms has significantly changed how children engage with games.

Unlike traditional gaming experiences, online games now allow real-time interaction with players across the world, many of whom are complete strangers.

Damunupola warned that prolonged exposure can create emotional dependency, with children increasingly seeking emotional support from unknown individuals and sharing personal details and problems online.

He noted that such behaviour could expose children to serious risks, including the sharing of sensitive information and private images.

He also highlighted concerns over gaming addiction and reward-based systems designed to encourage repetitive behaviour, comparing some features to gambling mechanics. According to him, parents have reported cases where children spent between Rs. 400,000 and Rs. 500,000 through unauthorized in-game purchases using credit cards.

Damunupola further pointed out that parents have observed behavioural changes in children, including aggression and emotional distress when gaming access is restricted.

He encouraged parents to make use of age-rating systems such as PEGI, which provides guidance on game content and age suitability.

He also stressed that parental controls and screen-time management remain among the most effective tools available to help monitor children’s online gaming habits.

The warning comes amid growing public discussions around digital safety and children's online activity following recent concerns surrounding youth internet use in Sri Lanka.