It Often Begins Online
In this 9.5-minute video from Bark, which also produced a documentary, a 37-year-old mom goes undercover as an 11-year-old girl to expose the dangers facing kids on social media. It dramatically demonstrates how youth can be exposed to online predators, grooming, and psychological abuse within minutes of logging on.
Experts urge parents/caregivers to have simple social media rules that can help prevent online grooming:
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Create an atmosphere of openness and transparency when it comes to online activities.
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Only use devices in shared family spaces.
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Avoid having cell phones or computers in the bedroom during the overnight hours.
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Know the passwords to kids' social media accounts.
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Encourage youth to only "friend" people they know in real life.
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