What Is Online Grooming and 3 Ways To Keep My Child Safe Online

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O nline grooming is something every parent needs to be aware of and
prepared for. The fact that most children will be on the internet at some
point means that we must be aware of the tactics of those who seek to
exploit our most vulnerable. Here are some facts to be aware of as you
work to keep your child safe from those who would want to harm them.

What Is Online Grooming?

Online grooming is when someone with
nefarious motives attempts to gain the
attention and trust of their victim, in order to
abuse and exploit them. Online grooming
includes actions such as building an
emotionally close relationship with a child,
making the child feel like they can trust
them, and saying things that will help them
gain access to the child.

(1) Be Aware of Your Child’s Online
Activities

Although most of us have good intentions
toward our children, there is a world of
people who do not. For this reason, it is
important to keep tabs on what exactly your child is doing online, and with
whom they are interacting.Instead of figuratively going beyond your child’s back, let them know that
you will be monitoring their activities and interactions on all their devices.
Check their email, social media accounts, and online profiles regularly.
Have a genuine interest in their online activities and ask them to explain
things to you.Keep computers and all other electronic devices in public areas, and have
a special recharging station for the devices to be turned in each night so
that children are not using the devices inappropriately while you sleep.
Install appropriate software on your child’s electronic devices so that you
can see what they are using their devices for. There is even software that
will keep track of conversations deemed to be inappropriate, which will
then red-flag the conversation and notify you as the parent.

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(2) Be Aware of Unusual Behavior

If your child is acting in an unusual manner, there is a possibility that they
are being groomed online. Keep your eyes open for changes in their
personality, including depression and secretiveness. If your child quickly
shuts down their device when you appear, find out why. If your child
suddenly acquires a new device that they could not have paid for
themselves, determine where it came fromOnline predators will often purchase separate devices so that a child can
communicate with them without being found out by a parent or authority
figure.

(3) Build and Maintain a Strong Relationship with Your Child

The most important defense against online predators you can have is to
work on a strong relationship with your child. Talk daily with your child,
even if their favorite time to talk is when they are supposed to be headed
to bed. Listen to the small things, because when something crucial
happens they will then be comfortable communicating with you about it.Keeping children safe in today’s world can be stressful. We as parents
have a duty to do what we can to keep their safety first and foremost. Use
these tips and educate yourself about online grooming so that your child
can avoid harm in this area of their life.
MoS™2021