Parents and guardians are being warned by the PSNI and the Northern Ireland Safeguards Commission on the importance of educating children about online safety before gifting them new devices and tech gadgets for Christmas.
Police have revealed that reports of online child sexual abuse crimes have surged by more than 80% in the past three years. Many of them are approached by sexual predators online or on gaming platforms.
These crimes included sexual assault and sexual communication with children, and elements of the crime were committed online.
The Police Service is working with the Northern Ireland Conservation Commission and Education Authority to issue a message to parents and guardians across Northern Ireland on how to keep children and young people safe online with online grooming this Christmas. raised awareness about
Chief Detective Kelly Brennan said:
“For some children, this is their first time owning a device that connects them to the online world. Be aware of new risks.
“Together with our partners at the Northern Ireland Safeguards Commission, we have put together some important tips for keeping your children safe online.
“These tips include: Reviewing privacy, location and parental controls on devices used by children; reviewing direct messaging and chat features in apps; using parental controls; Have open conversations with your child about what they are doing online.”
Officers are working closely with local schools, the Ministry of Education, and education authorities to highlight potential dangers online and ensure that children are well-groomed online or at risk. Parents who are concerned that they may be Always dial 999.
