The online world offers incredible ways to connect and explore, but it also comes with risks. Teens face challenges like cyberbullying, sextortion, and online enticement, often from unexpected sources. While many focus on the dangers posed by strangers, it’s important to recognize that these threats can also come from peers, classmates, or even friends.
Understanding Sextortion and Cyberbullying
Sextortion happens when someone pressures you to send private, often inappropriate, photos or videos. While online predators frequently use fake profiles to manipulate teens, it’s not always strangers behind the screen. Sometimes, it’s another teen who uses trust, pressure, or threats to obtain sensitive content.
Similarly, cyberbullying—hurtful comments, rumors, or harassment through texts and social media—often comes from people you know. The betrayal can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to face it alone.
How to Stay Safe Online
To protect yourself, it’s important to understand the risks and take steps to stay safe:
- Start the Conversation: Talk openly with parents, guardians, or trusted adults about your online experiences. Being able to share concerns without fear of judgment makes it easier to seek help if something goes wrong.
- Strengthen Security: Use features like fingerprint scans, facial recognition, and password locks to keep your devices secure. Be cautious with GPS settings, as location data in posts or photos can reveal where you are. Turn off location sharing when uploading content.
- Set Limits and Boundaries: Create clear rules for when and where you use your devices. Setting screen-time restrictions or “blackout” periods can help you step back from the pressure of constant online activity.
- Think Before You Share: Understand that any image or video you send can quickly become public—even if you trust the person you’re sending it to. Once shared, it’s difficult to control where it goes.
- Know the Risks from Peers: Sometimes, teens use secrets, relationships, or social status to pressure others into sending personal content. Recognize when you’re being manipulated, and don’t be afraid to say no.
- Use Monitoring Tools Wisely: Parental control apps can help your family stay informed about the apps and sites you use. It’s not about invading privacy—it’s about building a safety net.
Take Action and Get Help
The State of Hawaiʻi Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force offers a wealth of resources, including interactive games and tools to teach online safety. Their materials help teens recognize risky situations and make smart decisions online.
If you or someone you know is a victim of exploitation, don’t hesitate to seek help. Call 911 or report it to the National Center for Missing & Exploited Children’s Cyber Tipline.
By staying aware and informed, you can enjoy the benefits of being online without falling victim to its dangers. Remember, no matter the source of the threat, support is always available. You’re not alone.