#1
#1 out of 1
crime1d ago
Kids Are Learning Coded Language Like 'MAP' Online – We Need To Talk About It
- Experts warn that predators use coded terms like MAP to groom children online.
- UK online grooming cases rose 89% from 2017 to 2024, with 81% of young victims being girls in 2023/24.
- CEOP resources like Jessie & Friends are recommended to start safety conversations with kids aged four to seven.
- Parents are advised to supervise devices and use privacy settings on social apps for older children.
- Experts suggest pre-emptive conversations and contracts between parents and children regarding device use.
- Parents should report online grooming to local police and CEOP Safety Centre for under-18s.
- The article links online safety talk to context of rising online risks for children.
- Safety guidance includes reporting concerns and supervised device use in shared spaces.
- The piece emphasizes teaching kids how to identify trustworthy adults online.
- The article notes the youngest victim in a reported case was a five-year-old boy.
- Strategies include rehearsed responses to remove oneself from uncomfortable online situations.
Vote 0