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\u2019s important to recognize that these threats can also come from peers, classmates, or even friends.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Understanding Sextortion and Cyberbullying<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

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\u2019s not always strangers behind the screen. Sometimes, it\u2019s another teen who uses trust, pressure, or threats to obtain sensitive content.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Similarly, cyberbullying\u2014hurtful comments, rumors, or harassment through texts and social media\u2014often comes from people you know. The betrayal can feel overwhelming, but you don\u2019t have to face it alone.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

How to Stay Safe Online<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

To protect yourself, it\u2019s important to understand the risks and take steps to stay safe:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\n
• Start the Conversation:<\/strong> 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.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
• Strengthen Security:<\/strong> 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.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
• Set Limits and Boundaries:<\/strong> Create clear rules for when and where you use your devices. Setting screen-time restrictions or \u201cblackout\u201d periods can help you step back from the pressure of constant online activity.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
• Think Before You Share:<\/strong> Understand that any image or video you send can quickly become public\u2014even if you trust the person you\u2019re sending it to. Once shared, it\u2019s difficult to control where it goes.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
• Know the Risks from Peers:<\/strong> Sometimes, teens use secrets, relationships, or social status to pressure others into sending personal content. Recognize when you\u2019re being manipulated, and don\u2019t be afraid to say no.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
• Use Monitoring Tools Wisely:<\/strong> Parental control apps can help your family stay informed about the apps and sites you use. It\u2019s not about invading privacy\u2014it\u2019s about building a safety net.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n

  Take Action and Get Help<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

  The State of Hawai\u02bbi Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force<\/a> 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.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

  If you or someone you know is a victim of exploitation, don\u2019t hesitate to seek help. Call 911 or report it to the National Center for Missing & Exploited Children\u2019s Cyber Tipline<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

  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\u2019re not alone.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"

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