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Saskatchewan RCMP Reminds the Public Of the Dangers of Online Child Exploitation

According to Public Safety Canada, nearly one in four parents have come across inappropriate online content aimed at their child.

Though there are many benefits to youth using the Internet, more time online may put them at an increased risk for various forms of online exploitation and abuse. Online child exploitation occurs when a person manipulates youth into seeing or participating in online encounters of a sexual nature.

Encounters can range from one-time occurrences to multiple experiences; from one offender to multiple offenders. All encounters are different and many tactics can be used.

Some examples of encounters and tactics used by offenders are:

• They may approach youth online through technology like chatting through an app, online game or website – they could be someone you know or think you know
• They may use a fake profile to pretend to be someone else
• They try and build a connection by talking about things you’re interested in
• They may exploit existing relationships with your friends or online groups
• They may encourage, put pressure on you or blackmail to send inappropriate videos or photos through livestream and apps
• They may ask to meet in person

Being aware of the potential dangers associated with using the Internet and knowing how to stay safe online can help prevent dangerous situations.

Here are some ways to help stay safe while being online:

• Use privacy settings
• Understand that people may not be who they say they are online
• Be careful what information is shared online – it can be used against you
• Keep personal information private
• Never arrange to meet someone you don’t know or do know but have suspicions about
• Tell a trusted adult if you have suspicions about someone you’ve encountered online or concerns about your online interactions with someone

 

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