– Growing concerns over excessive online gaming, cyberbullying and children’s exposure to online betting are highlighting the need for stronger measures to protect children in Sri Lanka’s increasingly digital environment, psychiatrist Dr. Rumi Ruben said.r. Ruben said children who spend long hours online could face a range of risks, including gaming addiction, harassment by strangers, cyberbullying and exposure to gambling-related content.He said online gaming had become increasingly popular among children, but excessive gaming could negatively affect their sleep, education, social relationships and mental well-being. In some cases, children may also spend money on in-game purchases without fully understanding the financial consequences.

Cyberbullying has also emerged as a growing concern, with children being exposed to insults, threats, humiliation and harassment through social media, messaging applications and online gaming platforms.Meanwhile, the increasing visibility of online betting and gambling advertisements has raised concerns that children could be exposed to gambling-related content at an early age.The widespread availability of smartphones and digital payment methods could further increase the ease with which young people encounter such content, experts warn.Dr. Ruben highlighted that parents and teachers need to pay closer attention to children’s online activities while teaching them how to identify, avoid and report harmful behaviour.

Authorities and technology platforms also have an important role to play in preventing children from accessing inappropriate content and protecting them from online abuse, he said.As Sri Lankan children increasingly incorporate digital technology into their daily lives, experts say stronger public awareness, responsible parental supervision and effective child-protection measures are urgently needed to ensure that the online environment remains safe for them.