Today, stranger danger happens more online than in the real world.
When children make friends on the internet, they may not consider new people online to be “strangers,” despite the fact that the internet hides their identity.
How online predators operate
Online predators take advantage of the fact that the internet makes them anonymous. That means abuse can occur:
- Even if the child never meets the predator in person
- While parents are home or in the same room as a child
How predators connect with kids online
Predators use a variety of apps or sites to reach children. They talk to kids via social media, online games, comment sections or message boards. Often, predators will want to:
- Engage in sexual conversations
- Receive or send explicit photos
- Trick the child into giving them money
- Meet the child in person
Parents may not be able to keep up with every app or site. That’s why it’s critical to check in regularly and have frequent conversations about red flags to watch for to keep kids safe.
How to explain online predators to kids & teens
Tell kids:
- Predators can use any app, site or platform with messaging to talk to you.
- Any photo or video shared online is NOT private, even in a direct message.
- You can talk to me any time someone online makes you feel uncomfortable or someone unfamiliar tries to interact with you.
Ask kids:
- Who do you talk to online?
- Where do you talk?
- How do these conversations make you feel?
Learn about online grooming
Grooming is when predators try to build trust with a child, only to exploit it later. It can:
- Happen in a matter of hours or months.
There is no timetable. - Include questions about how involved caregivers are.
Predators will try to take advantage of children who say they are not supervised. - Seem harmless to the child at first.
Predators may start a relationship by asking them to perform a dance or gymnastics routine.
If kids report an interaction
Listen and respond calmly. Kids will need help processing what has happened.
Whatever they tell you, tell the child: “It is not your fault.”
Resources we trust
Stranger Danger: How to Talk About Online Predators With Your Kids | bark.us
Internet Safety for Kids | bark.us
Stranger Danger 2.0 | parents.thorn.org
How to Talk to Kids About Online Interactions | sharedhope.org
Gaming Exploitation | sharedhope.org