New Online Safety Initiative Helps Parents Protect Children
Prevent Child Abuse Kentucky has launched a new initiative in collaboration with the Kentucky State Police to provide free video training resources aimed at helping parents keep their children safe online. The program consists of a 10-part video series that covers essential topics such as internet safety, gaming safety, and how to address cyberbullying. One of the most pressing concerns covered in the videos is sextortion, a growing threat that can have serious consequences for young users.
Sextortion occurs when online predators lure individuals into sending them explicit content and then threaten to share it unless the victim complies with further demands, such as sending more photos or paying money. This form of exploitation is similar to blackmail and has become one of the fastest-growing cyber threats. According to data from the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children, over 186,000 reports of online enticement were filed in 2023, which includes cases of sextortion.
Kentucky State Police troopers emphasize that sextortion can happen on any social media platform and affects users across the country, including those in Kentucky. They advise parents to act quickly if their child becomes a victim. It is crucial not to engage with the predator and instead report the incident to local law enforcement.
Jill Seyfred, the Executive Director of Prevent Child Abuse Kentucky, highlights the importance of early intervention. She says the training videos are designed to “make sure that we stop all of that before it even starts.” Seyfred stresses that these conversations should begin with parents, who play a critical role in guiding their children through the digital world.
While parents don’t need to be experts in technology, Seyfred emphasizes the importance of staying informed about the latest trends and tools. Technology evolves rapidly, and understanding how children interact online is essential for keeping them safe.
The video series offers practical advice on monitoring a child’s online activity, discussing the importance of only interacting with people they know in real life, and setting limits on screen time. One of the top recommendations from troopers is to avoid letting children use their phones in their bedrooms at night. Seyfred explains that once a child goes to sleep, there is no need for their phone to be nearby.
Troopers also note that there is no specific age recommended for a child to gain access to the internet. However, they encourage parents to be prepared and involved when their child begins using online platforms. Open communication and active supervision are key to preventing potential dangers.
For more information and to access the full video series, parents can visit the official website. Additional resources on internet safety are also available to help families navigate the digital landscape safely.