The internet is part of everyday life for children and teenagers. They use it to learn, connect with friends, play games and explore new interests. While it offers countless opportunities, it also creates risk. As online exploitation continues to rise nationwide, it’s critical for parents and caregivers to understand the dangers and know how to effectively respond.

The reality of online exploitation

Online enticement occurs when an individual communicates with someone they believe to be a child through the internet with the intent to abduct, exploit or sexually abuse them. This communication can occur on any platform, including social media, gaming sites or messaging apps. Over time, the predator gradually builds trust that may shift toward manipulation, coercion or even sextortion – this is online exploitation.

According to the National Center for Missing & Exploited Children (NCMEC), reports of online enticement have surged in recent years. In 2023 alone, the NCMEC CyberTipline received nearly 187,000 reports. By 2024, that number had grown to more than 456,000.

Grooming: How it often begins

Online exploitation rarely starts with obvious threats. Usually, it begins with friendliness, known as grooming.

Grooming is a gradual process in which a predator forms an emotional connection with a child or teen to lower their inhibitions, gain their trust and create dependency. A predator may:

• Give excessive compliments
• Show strong interest in their hobbies or struggles
• Frequently message or “like” posts
• Pretend to be of a similar age
• Offer digital gifts like online currency, money transfers or gift cards

Throughout these interactions, they may encourage secrecy or try to isolate the child from their family and friends.

Sextortion: When sharing turns to threats

Sextortion occurs when someone pressures an individual to share explicit images and threatens to release those private and sensitive images unless they’re provided with money, more images or sexual favors. In some cases, the initial exchange can feel mutual or even romantic, but the situation quickly escalates to blackmail.

Why children and teens are vulnerable online

Children and teens naturally seek connection and validation, but their brains are still developing in impulse control, risk assessment and long-term thinking. This can make it harder to spot manipulation or online threats.

Online risks include:

• Violent or explicit content
• Cyberbullying and harassment
• Pressure tied to likes and appearance
• Oversharing personal information
• Addictive platform features
• Higher-risk behaviors
• Lying about age
• Messaging strangers privately
• Sending explicit content
• Exchanging money, gifts, alcohol or drugs
• Responding with support, not shame, so kids feel safe asking for help

Warning signs parents should watch for

While there is no single sign that confirms online exploitation, changes and certain patterns in behavior may signal concern:

• Quickly closing screens or deleting browsing history
• Creating hidden accounts or using unfamiliar apps
• Sudden mood swings, anxiety or withdrawal
• Sleep problems
• Anger when tech limits are enforced
• Receiving money or gifts from unknown sources
• Mentioning “new” friends you’ve never heard of
• Talking about feeling pressured, scared or controlled

If something feels off, trust your instincts and start a conversation.

How to help protect your children

Keeping children and teens safe online starts with proactive, ongoing involvement. Clear communication, firm boundaries and active supervision work together to reduce risks and build trust. It’s imperative to start conversations early (and keep them going), establish clear rules and a family digital safety plan and actively supervise, especially younger children.

If you suspect online enticement or exploitation

If you believe a child or a teen may be experiencing online enticement or exploitation, be sure to preserve evidence by not deleting any messages or images, and:

• Call 911 if there is immediate danger. · Submit a tip through the FBI website: tips.fbi.gov. · File a report with NCMEC at report.cybertip.org or call 1-800-THE-LOST (843-5678). · Report suspicious activity to Florida law enforcement by calling 1-855-FLA-SAFE (1-855-352-7233) or texting HELP to BEFREE (233733).

Local support and guidance are available. If your church, business or organization would like to receive FREE Human Trafficking Awareness and Prevention Training, reach out to Sgt. Wanda Hainley at the Hendry County Sheriff’s Office at 863-674-5600 or 863-673-6045.

Healthy Humans Hendry-Glades has resources to help you learn more about human trafficking, sex trafficking, and prevention.

For more information on resources provided by Healthy Humans Hendry-Glades please contact Edwin Melendez at Edwin.Melendez@FLHealth.gov or 863-302-6036 or June Holligan at June.Holligan@FLHealth.gov or 863-302-6019.