Arkansas Sees Surge in Sextortion Cases—How to Protect Your Kids

In 2020 there were only 16 cases of this crime in Arkansas, last year, "sextortion" rose to 169 cases. There's big money in it and most of the targets are your kids.

The Arkansas State Police's Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force sent out these reminders and warnings for parents in Arkansas along with tips on how to keep your kids safe in the digital world with not just online safety, but a safe place at home to bring their problems and mistakes when they make them.

The following video is from Sgt Corwin Battle, Commander of the Arkansas ICAC Task Force:

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It's Not If, It's When!

Social Media channels and the popularity of Virtual Reality meeting places are rife with risks and challenges, according to ASP. Children and teens have to know most everything they see online is not as it appears, especially the identities of people they meet online.

Warnings:

Major Stacie Rhoads, ASP Criminal Investigation Division Commander wants to remind parents of the dangers of downloading and sharing online content and the consequences of mistakes when they happen.

Your kids are going to make mistakes, lots of them, but talking with them and letting them know they can come to you no matter what mistakes are made is paramount.

ASP Parental Tips:

Educate children about online safety and the importance of staying cautious.
Monitor their children's online activities and the apps they use.
Encourage open conversations about internet use and potential risks.

ASP Key Safety Tips:

Set social media accounts to private and disable location sharing.
Avoid meeting strangers from the internet without verifying their identity.
Be cautious when sharing or downloading content online.
Never provide personal information to unknown individuals or in response to unsolicited requests.
Research apps before downloading, and be aware of their content and privacy settings.

Today, 2/11/2025, Is 'Safer Internet Day 2025'

Want to get involved and find out more? Safer.ConnectSafely.org.

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Gallery Credit: Michelle Heart