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Actually, we know you’re probably more likely to tell someone else. And that’s absolutely fine. The really important thing is that you tell someone you trust and who can help you. But remember - we are always here if you need us and we can keep you safe.
We hope that by sharing the ways criminals could try to gain your trust we are helping you to spot the signs of exploitation so you can talk to a trusted adult as soon as possible
There is a lot of useful information on this page about the signs to look out for, who to talk to if you’re worried and where you can get help
Online exploitation can affect anyone, of any gender, from any community. Please remember, if you are approached by someone who wants to exploit you in any way, it is never your fault
Please remember – if you are in immediate danger you should always contact the police by calling 999
There are things you can do to help protect your children from online exploitation.
If you are a parent or carer the following might indicate that a child needs help:
These are only some of the possible signs and ways you can help. The Children’s Society offer more information on risks, staying safe and spotting the signs.
CEOP (Child Exploitation and Online Protection Command) is the specialist team from the National Crime Agency and where you can make reports of online exploitation.
The Children’s Society have published advice about keeping children safe online as well as information about online and offline signs of exploitation.
The NSPCC has a section devoted to online safety including advice for parents on setting up parental controls and advice on how to have a conversation about online safety with your child. It covers different kinds of online channels and the risks associated with each.
They have also launched a new tool to remove nude images shared online
You can also contact them by telephone. Children and young people can contact Childline: 0800 1111 (or visit Childline.org.uk) and parents/carers can call: 0808 800 5000
Pace offers support and advice to parents/carers whose children have experienced exploitation. Information is available on their website and they also offer a telephone support service
The Thinkuknow website is full of useful information for children and their parents and information is organised by the age of the child. They have advice for keeping your child safe online
They have a wealth of resources to support parents and carers in having those difficult conversations with children and young people. They also offer advice for parents/carers if they believe their child has sent a nude selfie by text or uploaded one to a website or social media (sextortion); advice for parents/carers about children and online gaming.