Most of our kids lives now have an online bit to them - gaming, group chats, social media, homework, streaming. Most of the time it is fine. But sometimes adults (or older teens) use the internet to groom, pressure or exploit children. Knowing what to look for - and where to get help - makes a real difference.

What is online child exploitation?

Online child sexual exploitation is when someone uses the internet to trick, threaten or manipulate a child into sexual activity, including sharing images or videos, or meeting up offline. It can start with something that looks harmless - attention, gifts in games, flirty messages, or a request to keep a chat secret.

Warning signs parents and carers can spot

• Sudden secrecy about devices - closing screens quickly, using apps you have not heard of, new accounts.
• Big mood changes - anxious, withdrawn, angry, or unusually distracted after being online.
• New online friends who seem older, or talk about meeting up.
• Pressure for photos, video calls, or sexual talk - even if your child says it was "just a joke".
• Unexpected money, gifts, in-game items, or top-ups they cannot explain.

Practical steps you can take this week

• Keep talking - calm, curious questions work better than accusations. Try: "Has anything online made you uncomfortable?"
• Check privacy and safety settings on apps, games and devices, and agree simple rules (who they can chat to, what never to share).
• Use parental controls where appropriate - but do not rely on them alone.
• Make sure they know they can come to you if something goes wrong - even if they clicked something or shared something they regret.

If you are worried, where to start (and who to contact)

If you think a child is being exploited online, or you are not sure but your instincts are nagging, you can report it to CEOP (Child Exploitation and Online Protection Command). They are part of the police and are a good first port of call for online grooming and exploitation concerns.

Report to CEOP (ceop.police.uk)

If a child is in immediate danger, call 999. For wider local safeguarding information and support routes, you can also look at Staffordshire County Council:

Staffordshire County Council

Local tip: keep it simple and judgement-free

Kids often stay quiet because they fear losing their phone, getting in trouble, or being embarrassed. The best message is: "You are not in trouble - we will sort it together." If you need to, take screenshots, save usernames, and avoid replying to the person yourself - then use CEOP to report.