Traffickers exploit vulnerabilities, and children are inherently vulnerable.
One of the most simple ways to describe trafficking is the exploitation of vulnerability. And kids are innately vulnerable. Kids are vulnerable because their brains are not fully developed, and they depend on adults for safety and security. It’s becoming increasingly common for predators to exploit the vulnerability of children who are looking for social and emotional connections online.
How to talk to your kids.
It’s more imperative than ever for you to learn what exploitation is and what it looks like and then coach your kids in the same understanding. Cultivating safety in relationships with your kids creates a grounding in them that will set them up for healthy, independent decision-making in the future. While exploitation is a real danger that can take many forms, the good news is you have everything you need to protect your kids.
Learn about grooming.
Grooming is the building of a false relationship to gain the trust of another individual for the purpose of manipulation or exploitation.
Predators groom kids, either online or in person, to exchange explicit photos, engage in sexual activity, or for financial gain.
Learn who is vulnerable.
Although all youth are vulnerable to being groomed by traffickers, some are particularly vulnerable, including children in the foster care system, runaway and homeless youth, LGBTQ+ youth, and those with a history of complex trauma. It’s a dangerous misconception to believe that kids being kidnapped or smuggled across borders is the most common trafficking situation in the U.S.
Pornography and sextortion.
As access to the Internet grows, so does the risk of exposure to pornography and the possibility of being exploited through sextortion. With a smartphone in hand, kids can learn just about anything at any time. It can also mean they are exposed to content that can be harmful, even if it happens unintentionally.
Here are some steps you can take today.
Check-in with your kids often about what apps they’re using, who they’re talking to, and what they’re talking about.
Instead of setting rules like “no FaceTiming with friends,” look for ways to coach your kids on healthy online interaction. This enforces a grounding in them for their decisions when you’re not there.
Limit screen time by placing wifi restrictions or only allowing the use of screens in common areas (like the living room) where you can supervise their usage.
Get on the same page with other parents about how you're talking to your child about online safety and the precautions you're taking. This creates solidarity and consistency in how you’re protecting your kids.
Use apps such as Bark that monitor text messages and social networks for risky or concerning behaviors.
Use parental controls when available.
Connect their accounts to yours so you can access their apps and see their conversations.
Familiarize yourself with the various social media apps your kids use. Protect Young Eyes has an excellent website explaining multiple social media apps and what to look out for.
Frequently affirm your kids you are there for them, and they can come to you if something is wrong.
Talk to your kids about sending explicit pictures, how they have no control once they hit “send,” and what they should do if they are sent a picture without their consent.
Lindsey’s List
Here are some resources, organizations, and websites Traffick911 Executive Director, Lindsey Speed recommends.
Help with pornography addiction at Fight the New Drug
Note: These are the resources we recommend to stay informed and keep your family safe. We do not receive any benefits or funding from any of the sources we mention.