Online Abuse and Grooming
What is online abuse?
Online abuse is any type of abuse that happens on the Internet. It can happen across any device that’s connected to the web, like computers, tablets, and mobile phones. And it can happen anywhere online, including:
social media
text messages and messaging apps
emails
online chats
online gaming
live-streaming sites
Children can be at risk of online abuse from people they know or from strangers. It might be part of other abuse which is taking place offline, like bullying or grooming, or the abuse might only happen online.
Types of online abuse
Children and young people might experience different types of online abuse, such as:
cyberbullying
emotional abuse
grooming
sexting
sexual abuse
sexual exploitation
Signs of online abuse
A child or young person experiencing abuse online might:
spend a lot more or a lot less time than usual online, texting, gaming, or using social media
seem distant, upset, or angry after using the internet or texting
be secretive about who they’re talking to and what they’re doing online or on their mobile phone
If a child reveals online abuse
It can be difficult to know what to say and do if a child tells you they’re being abused online. They might not realise what’s happening is wrong, and they might even blame themselves. If a child talks to you about online abuse it’s important to:
listen carefully to what they’re saying
let them know they’ve done the right thing by telling you
tell them it’s not their fault
say you’ll take them seriously
don’t confront the alleged abuser
explain what you’ll do next
report what the child has told you as soon as possible
Effects of online abuse
Online abuse can have long-lasting effects on children and young people. It can lead to:
anxiety
self-harm
eating disorders
suicidal thoughts.
cyberbullying
grooming
sexual abuse
child sexual exploitation
Who’s at risk
Any child who uses the internet can be at risk of online abuse. It’s important parents are aware of the risks and talk to their child about staying safe online.
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