Online Safety for Kids and Youth

Today’s youth spend more time online than ever before. That’s why online safety is essential to protecting children from trafficking, exploitation, and abuse.

Whether they’re scrolling, gaming, or chatting, kids can become targets without even realizing it. Traffickers often pose as friends, romantic interests, or recruiters — using social media and messaging apps to build trust, isolate, and manipulate.

What Parents and Caregivers Should Know

Even in homes with strong values and loving support, young people can still be vulnerable. Traffickers are skilled at identifying emotional needs — like attention, belonging, and validation — and exploiting them online.

Knowledge is power, and recognizing where the kids you love may be at risk is a good first step to helping them stay safe.

Common platforms used by traffickers include:

Instagram, Snapchat, TikTok, and Discord
Online gaming chats like Roblox, Fortnite, etc.
Direct messaging apps like WhatsApp, Kik, or Telegram

What Youth Should Know

You never owe anyone pictures, attention, or time — online or offline.
If someone makes you uncomfortable, block them and tell someone you trust.
Not everyone is who they say they are — even if they seem “nice” or “cool.”
You deserve to feel safe, supported, and respected — always.

Six Steps to Online Safety

Talk Early and Often
Create a judgment-free space to talk about online habits, friends, and red flags. Let them know they can come to you — even if they’ve made a mistake.
Set Boundaries Together
Agree on screen time limits, privacy settings, and what kinds of apps or platforms are okay to use.
Know Their Digital World
Stay informed about the apps, games, and sites your child uses. Ask questions. Learn the language. Follow or friend them where appropriate.
Teach Them About Grooming
Explain how predators may give compliments, gifts, or attention to gain trust — and why secrecy or pressure is a red flag.
Keep Devices in Shared Spaces
Encourage device use in open areas of the home, especially during vulnerable times like late at night.
Use Tech Tools Wisely
Parental control apps can help monitor online activity, but they’re not a substitute for a strong relationship. Your presence and trust are the best safeguards.