New York State To Ban Sex Offenders From Online Games

New York officials recently kicked off a new campaign, dubbed “Operation: Game Over,” which aims to ban sex offenders from having access from various online gaming services, such as Xbox Live.

So far, over 3,500 accounts have been removed from services ran by Microsoft, Apple, Blizzard Entertainment, Electronic Arts, Disney Interactive Media, Warner Brothers and Sony–and, with the cooperation of each company, even more will be banned throughout the year.

“We must ensure online video game systems do not become a digital playground for dangerous predators. That means doing everything possible to block sex offenders from using gaming networks as a vehicle to prey on underage victims,” said New York Attorney General Eric T. Schneiderman.

“I applaud all the companies participating in this first-of-its-kind initiative for taking online safety seriously and purging their networks of sex offenders. Together we are making the online community safer for our children, not allowing it to become a 21st century crime scene.”

This marks the first time that the law has been applied to gaming services, but it isn’t a first for online accounts. Registered sex offenders are required to provide all email addresses, screen names and accounts to the state, which can then be forwarded to websites so that potential sexual predators can be removed.

“Attorney General Schneiderman’s leadership in removing sexual predators from online gaming systems has delivered real results. In Monroe County, we have seen dangerous people use gaming platforms to lure unsuspecting children,” said District Attorney Doorley.

“As predators seek new ways to cause harm, Operation: Game Over provides a new shield to protect our families. I look forward to working with the Attorney General and all of our partners in law enforcement to make the Internet a safer, more secure place for children around the state.”

via Game Informer