DOTHAN, Alabama (WTVY) – Preparing little Jimmy or Jill for their first day back is a special moment for parents, and as proud parents do, they share those moments online.
However, if you reveal too much to them, it may endanger your health.
“It’s unfortunate the world we live in today,” said Henry County Sheriff Eric Blankenship. “There are a lot of criminals on the Internet who are looking for just about anything.”
According to the Child Crime Prevention and Safety Center, 840,000 children are reported missing each year and it is estimated that 25% of these cases are related to social media.
“It’s very easy for sex offenders to find out simple but effective information about your child on social media,” said Laurabeth Ross, community advocate for the Southeast Child Advocacy Center. “Things like where they are Monday through Friday, what school they go to, and who their teacher is?”
It is a problem that is getting bigger every day.
“A lot of what we’re seeing at the Child Advocacy Center is that the number of cases attributed to online predators is definitely increasing,” Ross said.
If they don’t know the right steps to take, they risk falling victim to someone lurking in the shadows.
“Try not to post anything that shows their full name, age, or other similar important information, especially with younger children,” Sheriff Blankenship said. “Someone who may be a sex offender can target them and develop a relationship with them.”
Important for younger and older children with their own phones.
“It’s about breaking down trust with their family so that they trust you,” Ross said. “You have to make them feel like they’re their friends. Maintain that trust in a way that makes your child feel comfortable letting you know if something unpleasant happens.”
This way, you will always be one step ahead of the people who are up to no good.
“Knowledge is power. The more you know and understand, the better you can make informed decisions,” says Blankenship.
It’s about finding a balance between sharing special moments and protecting privacy.
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