First we had “sexting.” Now we have “sextortion.”
Teens who text nude cell phone photos of themselves or show off their bodies on the Internet are being contacted by pornographers who threaten to expose their behavior to friends and family unless they pose for more explicit porn, creating a vicious cycle of exploitation.
In a recent AP article, Federal prosecutors and child safety advocates reported they’re seeing an upswing in such cases of online sexual extortion.
So what can you do to protect your children and prevent this crime from happening? Here are 5 tips from DigitalSheperds.com:
1) Beginning when they’re young, start talking (in an age appropriate manner) with your children about appropriate behaviors when they use the computer.
2) Keep your anti-virus up to date!
3) Use parental control software.
4) Choose an internet safety blog or three and make time to read them on a regular basis.
5) Do not allow computers or laptops in the bedroom. If you do allow this, make sure there are no cameras on the laptops or computers and doors should be open during use.
NOTE: If you suspect this may be happening to your child, please contact the Sex Crimes Unit at the Columbus Police Department at (706) 653-3405.
