Together for a better internet, we strive to play smart and spend wisely! 🎮 #AdWiseOnline celebrates #SaferInternetDay by highlighting resources that raise awareness about potentially manipulative or misleading #marketing practices in #video games!#SID2025
Learn more about… pic.twitter.com/Mthv2gHTZP— Safer Internet Day (@safeinternetday) February 11, 2025
The Southeast Regional Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force (SER-ICAC) in Richland is dedicated to protecting children online and bringing perpetrators to justice. In 2023, SER-ICAC received 88 cyber-tips in the area, highlighting the importance of this issue. The Richland Police Department offers tips for parents to keep their children safe online.
“It can start as young as a kiddo getting an iPad, or maybe using a parent’s Kindle.
🌍🔒 Have you yet to find an event close to you to celebrate #SID? 🔒🌍
Find the interactive map of all committees and supporters on our Safer Internet Day (SID) website: https://t.co/jkA65wVXic#SaferInternetDay #SID2025 #BIK #OnlineSafety pic.twitter.com/fto4U2aJXU
— Safer Internet Day (@safeinternetday) February 11, 2025
Those do go on the internet, which a lot of people don’t know,” said Claire Venema, Community Relations Specialist with RPD. Venema advises parents to talk to their kids about only accessing apps that mom and dad allow and not putting personal information online.
Detective Messick of the Internet Crimes Against Children Taskforce offers vital tips to keep our children safe online. Be S.M.A.R.T. about it! 💻🚨Start the conversation today! 📱
Additional resources at https://t.co/cHdYPp8oI3#DiamondStateProtectors #SaferInternetDay… pic.twitter.com/fanix3tRZe
— Delaware State Police (@DEStatePolice) February 11, 2025
She also encourages children to speak up if someone is interacting with them on an app or game and it doesn’t feel right.
Protecting children through online vigilance
Building a strong rapport between child and parent can make a significant difference.
If there is evidence that a child has been targeted, it is important to keep proof instead of deleting it so that SER-ICAC investigators can use that evidence to track down the individuals involved. Parents can take several steps to protect their children online:
– Monitor the apps and websites your children access. – Educate children about the importance of not sharing personal information online.
– Encourage open communication so children feel comfortable reporting anything suspicious. If you suspect online exploitation of a child, report it to your local law enforcement agency. By working together, parents and law enforcement can help create a safer online environment for children.
