Online Grooming: Understanding the Risks

Online grooming is the process of persuading or involving a person in sexual relationships through online interactions. Grooming occurs when an adult secretly befriends a minor online with the intent of engaging them in a sexual relationship. Often, these individuals pretend to be peers, although in reality, they are much older.

Such predators use specific tactics. At first, they are very polite to gain your trust. They may then start talking about your appearance, body, and other very personal topics. They might offer you gifts or start conversations with sexual content, sending photos or videos.

Next, they may ask you to send nude photos or engage in intimate activity over a webcam. They could record and share this material with other predators.

Groomers use different methods, such as fake profiles and photos, or they may claim to share the same interests as you. However, not all groomers hide their identity; some may try to establish a direct relationship with you as a "mentor."

Any young person, or even some adults, can become victims of grooming, regardless of age, gender, race, or location. Online grooming is a crime, and it is never the victim's fault.

Signs of Grooming: Be Suspicious If Someone You Don’t Know Asks You to:
Meet in person
Share your or your friends’ personal information
Send photos or videos of yourself
Keep the relationship a secret from friends and family
Always be available and respond to messages immediately
What to Do If You Suspect Online Grooming
Stay calm, don’t panic.
Do not send any more photos.
Gather evidence.
Report the user on the social platform where the threat is happening.
Block the person.
Reach out for help from a friend, parent, teacher, or any trusted adult.
Contact the police.
Remember, this is not your fault.