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Adults use gaming platforms to find children they can build relationships with. They look for kids who seem lonely, who respond to attention, or who accept in-game gifts.
What You Might Notice
An older player is giving your child lots of attention
Buying them in-game items, always wanting to play together, asking personal questions.
Your child has a new 'best friend' online they won't talk about
Secrecy about online friendships is a warning sign, especially with age gaps.
Your child is receiving gifts (game currency, items, subscriptions)
Gift-giving creates obligation and is a classic grooming technique.
What You Can Do
Know what games your child plays and who they play with
You don't need to monitor every message, but understanding who they interact with regularly matters.
Frame this as interest in their world, not surveillance.
Set up parental controls on gaming platforms
Most platforms have settings to limit who can contact your child or send friend requests.
Report to ACCCE if you're concerned about an adult contacting your child
The Australian Centre to Counter Child Exploitation: accce.gov.au/report
Important: This resource provides general information, not personal advice. Every situation is different. The actions suggested here may not be safe in your specific circumstances — particularly if the person causing harm could notice changes to your devices or accounts. Always consider your physical safety first.
If you need personalised support, contact 1800RESPECT (1800 737 732) or your local specialist domestic violence service. If you are in immediate danger, call 000.
Identifying targets (often minors) via gaming platforms (Roblox, Minecraft, Fortnite, Discord) based on age indicators, activity patterns, in-game behaviour, and willingness to engage in chat. Groomers look for children who seem isolated, eager for attention, or responsive to gifts.
Mitigations for this technique are under development. If you have suggestions on how to improve this content, please submit a pattern.
The TFA Matrix is a research framework under active development. Technique classifications, detection methods, and mitigations reflect current understanding and are subject to revision. This framework does not constitute forensic methodology, legal evidence standards, or clinical diagnostic criteria. Practitioners should apply professional judgement appropriate to their discipline and jurisdiction.