Fortnite is a popular survival action game where up to 100 live players can fight each other to be the last one standing. The game includes heavy violence but with little blood or gore. You can talk to other players using public, private and voice chat.
Official age rating
Sitting down with your child and exploring their favourite app or game is a great way for you to learn more about what they like to do online.
You can ask them why they like to use an app or play certain games, as well as who they’re talking to and what sorts of things they’re sharing.
You can also read our Net Aware reviews for tips on how to keep kids safe on popular apps, sites and games.
Fortnite has a range of parental tools which let you control things like filters on mature language and disabling voice chat.
You can read more about parental controls on Fortnite.
Take the time to explore these with your child, talking about the different features and why you might to use them.
Be aware of the Fortnite-Houseparty video streaming feature which allows Fortnite players to video stream to their Houseparty friends. You can see more information here and here and some safety tips, including blocking and reporting.
Help your child think about what they share online and who sees it. Compare it to what they would be happy to share offline.
Use examples that are easy for them to understand: “You shouldn't give your number to somebody you don't know on the street. Is somebody online you don't know any different?”
Listen to their answers. And be positive and encouraging.
Remind them that they shouldn’t share private things, such as:
Most gaming platforms allow you to chat with other players whilst you play the game. This can take place in chat boxes, both privately and publicly, or via voice or video call.
Make sure you check in with your child regularly about who they’re talking to on their favourite games. Remind them that conversations should only be about the game, and if someone starts asking them other questions or suggests they speak using another app like Snapchat or Instagram they should tell you.
Explore safety settings together like block, report and mute so your child knows how to stop unwanted contact or end an online chat if it's not about the game.
Be aware that some young people might use third-party apps like Discord and Twitch to talk to others via text, voice or video chat while gaming. Some games even have official verified forums for fans to share tips and talk about the game on these platforms.
We've also come across some unofficial chat add-ons available for players to download that enable them to chat with other gamers who live nearby.
Make sure to talk to your child regularly about the different apps they’re using to communicate with people online and who they’re playing with. It’s also important to remind your child to never share their location with anyone, especially if the other player lives nearby.
Explain that you understand the internet is a great place to play, create, learn and connect. But remind them they can talk to you if anything upsets or worries them.
Reassure them that you won’t overreact – you’re just looking out for them.
It’s important to remind your child that they can talk you, another adult they trust, like a teacher, or Childline about anything they see online.
Talk to your child about turning off voice chat in Fortnite's settings to protect them from inappropriate language.
Having open, regular conversations with your child will help you to really understand and explore the online world together. Our tips and advice can help you start these conversations.
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