Image Credit: Kamloops RCMP

By James Peters

Online Safety

Online sexual exploitation reports have increased during COVID-19 pandemic: RCMP

Jan 25, 2021 | 11:17 AM

KAMLOOPS — RCMP say reports of child sexual exploitation have increased since the COVID-19 pandemic arrived in Canada, and is encouraging parents to take an active role in ensuring their children are safe online.

In a news release, Cpl. Dana Napier of the Kamloops RCMP Crime Prevention Unit says the increase in such reports is found in data provided by the Canadian Centre for Child Protection. The reports include examples such as children sending or receiving sexual images, videos or messages in interactions with adults.

The problem of exploitation is magnified by the lack of in-person interaction during the pandemic, leading children to go online to socialize and interact with others.

Napier encourages parents to check in with their children regarding their activities online and provide a safe outlet for conversations around inappropriate online behaviour.

Napier adds these tips for parents concerned about keeping their children safe:

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• Continuously check that privacy settings are on for all apps;
• Turn off location services to minimize data collection;
• Have daily conversations about online activities from a curiosity perspective;
• Let children know that if they need support they can ask a safe and trusted adult and ask them to name their trusted adults;
• Discuss age appropriate apps, games, and entertainment, as well as how to secure passwords;
• Watch for behaviour changes such as if they’re upset or secretive with online activities;
• Establish rules on how and where devices can be used and where they should be left overnight for charging;
• Get familiar with parental controls on all devices, apps including YouTube/Netflix.