Online Safety & The Rise of Sextortion: Protecting Our Kids in a Digital World

The internet is a regular part of daily life, offering learning, connection, and entertainment. However, with all the good comes a lot of potential risk, especially for children and teens. One growing threat is online exploitation, including sextortion, a dangerous crime that is thought to be behind some tragic losses in Kentucky.

What Is Sextortion?

Sextortion is a type of online blackmail. It happens when someone tricks or pressures another person, often a child or teen, into sharing private or sexual photos or videos. Once the predator gets the images, they threaten to share them unless the victim sends more, pays money, or does something else they demand. This kind of abuse can cause deep emotional pain. Victims may feel scared, ashamed, or alone, putting them at risk for depression and suicide. That’s why it’s important for parents, caregivers, and the community to stay informed so they are prepared to protect children from online predators.

How to Keep Kids Safe Online

Here are some key ways to protect kids from online dangers:

Teach Them Early - Talk to children about online safety, privacy, and why it’s never safe to share personal or sexual images.
Use Parental Controls - Set up privacy and safety settings on devices and apps to help manage what kids see and do online.
Keep Communication Open - Make sure kids know they can come to you if something online makes them feel uncomfortable or scared.
Watch for Warning Signs - Be alert to changes in behavior like mood swings, being secretive, or avoiding friends, these could be signs of online trouble.
Click Carefully - Don’t click on links in emails from people you don’t know. These could contain viruses or steal your personal information.
Be Mindful of Cameras- Assume webcams and camera devices can be turned on remotely. Don’t point them at yourself while changing clothes or in private situations. Always cover your webcam when you're not using it. If your device doesn’t have a built in cover, use a piece of tape or a sticker.

What Kids Should Do If They’re Targeted

If a child or teen is being threatened online, they should:

Never give in - Never send more pictures, pay money, or keep talking to the predator.
Save the evidence - Don’t delete messages. Keep everything as proof.
Block and report the person - Use the platform’s reporting tools and call law enforcement.
Tell an adult they trust - Getting help right away is the best way to stop the abuse.

The Mental Health Impact

Online exploitation like sextortion or cyberbullying can harm mental health. Victims may feel anxious, depressed, or even have thoughts of suicide. Many are afraid to speak up because they feel ashamed or think they’ll get in trouble. That’s why we must create a space where kids feel safe asking for help.

If You or Someone You Know Needs Help Contact:

988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline - Call or text 988 for 24/7 free, confidential help.
National Center for Missing & Exploited Children (NCMEC) - Report online threats at the CyberTipline.
Local Mental Health Services - Reach out to counselors or crisis centers in your area.

Safeguard Your Home

Protecting kids also means making your home safer. In addition to storing alcohol out of reach it’s important to keep medications and firearms locked too. Boone County Alliance provides free gun locks and lock boxes to help families lower the risk of harm or suicide.

Every child deserves to feel safe, online and offline. By staying informed, talking openly, and supporting one another, we can help prevent tragedies and create a safer world for our kids. If you need support or more information, Boone County Alliance is here to help. Visit our website for social media and internet safety resources. Let’s work together to help kids stay safe, strong, and confident in today’s digital world.