ALMOST two in three Irish children have been contacted by strangers while gaming online, according to a new report.
CyberSafe Ireland, an internet safety charity, conducted a survey which shows that 61% of all children who play console or computer games play have had strangers reach out to them during a game.
The survey also found that just under one third (31%) regularly played online with players they don't know in real life.
CyberSafe Ireland's study surveyed nearly 4,000 children aged between 8 and 12 in schools around the country.
Around 40% of boys who play games online had been contacted by a stranger, while 22% of girls who played online were contacted.
Another worrying issue highlighted in the report is the number of children (65%), who are signed up to social media platforms despite age limits, while 93% own smart devices, with capabilities of running games and apps where they could be contacted by people they don't know.
Most social media platforms require users to be above the age of 13, while the digital age of consent in Ireland is 16.
Avril Ronan Naughton, CyberSafe Ireland's chairwoman said: "These unprecedented times have only served to remind us of our responsibility to ensure that children are well prepared for their digital lives.
"It is vital that we continue to provide education, resources and support to children themselves but also to parents and teachers.
"As an organisation, we remain concerned that children are not being adequately prepared and that they need more guidance and support from parents and educators.
"CyberSafe Ireland is committed to its vision of a world in which children are using technology in a safe, positive and successful manner."
