A New York man was arrested yesterday after threatening to shoot an 11-year-old boy he had lost to in the video game "Fortnite," according to police.

Suffolk County Police Chief of Department Stuart Cameron said Michael Aliperti, 45, of Long Island, threatened to go to the boy's home and harm him and also alluded to his school.

The alleged threats were made through text messages and online voice messages at about 9 pm on Monday, according to local media.

Michael Aliperti, 45, was arrested in New York this week after threatening to shoot an 11-year-old boy who he lost to in the popular online video game Fortnite. (Supplied)

The child had been playing the popular third-person shooter game with Aliperti for several months.

The child's family reported the incident to police, who increased their presence at the child's school.

"We took this as a school threat," Cameron said.

Aliperti allegedly made the threats through text messages and online voice messages and now faces multiple charges. (Supplied)

"That was done out of an abundance of caution."

Cameron also cautioned parents to monitor their children's video game playing and to be aware of their online opponents.

Aliperti was arrested yesterday on charges of aggravated harassment and acting in a manner to injure a child.

Bail was set at US$2500 and an order of protection was issued for the victim.

A message left with his attorney was not immediately returned.