What is online grooming??
Online grooming involves a person using cyber technologies to try and set up a sexually abusive situation. The groomers lie (especially about age) and try to form a relationship with the chosen victim. They then try to find out more about the victim and often try and isolate them from their friends and family. Also, they can sometimes use threats and blackmail to gain more control.
What can happen??
You can be exposed to things like pornographic images videos, drawings and animations, text messages, emails, stories, sound bites and music. Some of this material will be age restricted and/or illegal . Some material which is not illegal or age-restricted, may still be offensive!! The groomer will also try and arrange a time to meet the victim.
How can you help prevent grooming?
There will always be online groomers out there but here are some things you can do to stay safe!!
- Be careful who you give your email address and cell phone number to. DON"T give them to some random you saw in town.
- NEVER EVER arrange/ agree to meet someone you have met online - EVER
- Don't tell people personal information (like full name, school, address, contact details etc)
- Be very careful with pictures. Don't make yourself identifiable :)
- Tell someone if you are feeling unsafe!!
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