In an increasingly digital world, sextortion is a rising threat that targets individuals, especially young people, in vulnerable situations.

Teach your child about the dangers of sharing personal information and explicit content online. Help them understand that once something is shared, it can be difficult to take back.

• Discuss the risks of interacting with strangers online.

• Encourage your child to think before they share.

Establish a relationship where your child feels comfortable coming to you with any concerns or uncomfortable situations they encounter online.

• Create a safe space for them to talk about their online experiences.

• Reassure them that they won’t be blamed if they fall victim to sextortion.

Ensure your child’s social media accounts and online profiles have strict privacy settings. Limiting who can see their posts and who can contact them reduces the risk of predators reaching them.

• Review privacy settings on social media, gaming platforms, and messaging apps regularly.

• Monitor their friend lists and connections.

Be aware of changes in your child’s behavior that could indicate something is wrong. Warning signs may include:

• Secrecy about online activities.

• Sudden withdrawal from family and friends.

• Unexplained gifts or money.

• Signs of anxiety, fear, or depression.

Teach your child that they have the right to say no to any requests that make them uncomfortable, whether it's sharing images or engaging in conversations that don't feel right.

• Practice scenarios with them to help build their confidence.

• Please encourage them to block and report anyone who pressures them.

If you suspect your child is being targeted by a predator, it's important to act quickly:

• Stay calm and reassure your child that they are not at fault.

• Document all interactions and messages from the predator.

• Report the situation to local authorities and the platform where the exploitation occurred.