The 14 best internet safety games for kids

It’s vital that kids understand how to stay safe online. These internet safety games make learning fun and interactive, empowering kids with the skills they need to handle the digital world. Below, you'll find a range of games designed for various age groups, each one focusing on a different aspect of internet safety, from spotting scams to protecting personal data.

1. Interland

Google’s Interland is an exciting, colorful adventure game that teaches children important lessons about password security, phishing, and kindness online. It's great for kids ages 8 to 12 who are learning to navigate the internet for school or socializing.

2. Space Shelter

In Space Shelter, players guide a spaceship through obstacles that represent online threats like weak passwords and phishing attempts. Aimed at kids aged 10+, this game teaches users how to safeguard their personal information while having fun exploring space.

3. Cyber-Five

Designed for younger children (ages 5 to 9), Cyber-Five covers the five key rules of online safety. The game reinforces good habits such as not sharing personal information and asking an adult for help when something online doesn’t feel right.

4. Safe Online Surfing

Created by the FBI, Safe Online Surfing is perfect for kids in grades 3 to 8. This quiz-style game covers everything from creating strong passwords to identifying malware and safe online communication.

5. Finn Goes Online

Follow Finn the Fish as he learns the basics of internet safety! This game, suitable for kids aged 6 to 10, teaches players how to avoid scams and protect their personal details when browsing online.

6. Band Runner

Band Runner, from the UK’s ThinkUKnow campaign, is an action-packed game for kids aged 8 to 12. As players run through levels, they learn about privacy settings, blocking unwanted messages, and the dangers of sharing too much online.

7. Privacy on Patrol Squad

In Privacy on Patrol Squad, players learn how to keep their data safe by recognizing phishing attempts and understanding privacy settings on social media. This game is ideal for kids aged 9 to 13.

8. Cyber Defense Quiz

This quiz-style game, suited for kids 10 and older, helps players identify common cyber threats like malware, phishing, and identity theft. By answering questions, they develop a better understanding of online dangers and how to avoid them.

Digital safety tip: Teach kids not to click on links or download files from unknown sources to avoid phishing scams.

9. That's Not Cool

That’s Not Cool is aimed at teens, encouraging them to think about healthy online communication. It covers cyberbullying, consent, and setting boundaries in online interactions, making it perfect for high school students.

10. FBI-SOS Cyber Surf Island

This game, created by the FBI, lets players explore different islands where they learn essential internet safety skills like avoiding cyber predators and recognizing fake websites. Suitable for kids aged 8 to 12.

11. Cyber Legends

Cyber Legends turns internet safety into an adventure game where players defend against cyber attacks. With missions that cover password security and online privacy, it’s an excellent choice for kids ages 10+.

12. BrainPop: The Meaning of Beep

Designed for kids aged 6 to 9, this game helps children understand how to be good digital citizens. It teaches the basics of online etiquette and avoiding cyberbullying through fun, animated adventures.

Digital safety tip: Encourage kids to use different, complex passwords for each account to strengthen their online security.

13. Nova Cybersecurity Lab Game

For older kids and teens, the Nova Cybersecurity Lab Game dives deep into the world of cyber defense. Players learn how hackers operate and how to protect systems from attacks, giving them a solid foundation in cybersecurity basics.

Why playing internet safety games is important

Kids face numerous risks when browsing online. From cyberbullying and cyberstalking to inappropriate content and phishing attacks, the dangers are real. Sharing personal details, stumbling upon unsafe websites, or using weak passwords can lead to serious issues like identity theft or financial loss.

Explore the digital world safely

As kids grow, so does their use of the internet. It’s important they develop the skills necessary to navigate the online world safely. With these internet safety games, they’ll have fun while learning critical lessons that can keep them out of harm’s way.