OPP are looking into cases where minors have shared inappropriate photos with both people they know and strangers.
This is a serious issue because it can lead to scams, blackmail, or even grooming. Grooming happens when someone gains a minor’s trust to exploit them, often asking for inappropriate photos or meetings. It’s important to keep a close watch on online interactions to protect children.
Scammers might use explicit photos to threaten the sender, demanding money or other things. Once these images are shared, the sender loses control, and it can have lasting, harmful effects.
Tips for Parents and Guardians:
Talk to your children often about the dangers of sharing personal photos and talking to strangers online. Be aware of grooming tactics like giving compliments, offering gifts, or asking for secrecy. Watch your child’s social media and messaging apps for any unusual activity. Encourage your children to tell you if they get any messages that make them uncomfortable.
What to Do if Your Child is Targeted:
Don’t respond to the suspect. Keep all evidence, like screenshots of messages and photos. Contact the police right away to report the incident.
OPP is dedicated to protecting children and spreading awareness about online dangers like sextortion and grooming. If you think your child has been targeted, report it immediately to the OPP or visit Cybertip.ca for more help.
Written by: K. Milhomens