Sexual Assault Sextortion

[shimmerz]

Due to my past career I have a special interest in how computers, social media, and electronics in general aid perverts in abusing our children. I know that many of you have children. I don't know if you know about this form of abuse but if you don't, you should. It is dangerous out there. Kids aren't savvy enough to understand what is happening and police don't take it seriously.

My step daughter was caught in this about 9 years ago. I found out and freaked. Oddly enough, her parents didn't care. She was 11 and her abuser was 16. Police didn't give a shit, nor did Children's Aid. So I sat her down and educated her about what was appropriate online and what wasn't. I basically asked her to picture doing 'IRL' what she was doing online. If she was at school in front of friends and someone asked her to lift her top, would she. She laughed and said 'NO', like I was asking the dumbest question on earth. She eventually got it and I hope she remained safe.

There is a video out there about an Amanda Todd. She made a mistake and 'flashed' and there were people waiting to capture the pics and spread them on the internet. She was then 'blackmailed' to reveal more of herself on vidcam. She refused. The pictures the blackmailer took were then sent to everyone on her facebook page. It ruined her life. It ended her life. It is a poignant story.

Please be aware that this happens to boys and girls alike. This guy was targeting 10-12 year olds. The predators are merciless. Merciless. If you don't know about this form of abuse, there is a video out there on Youtube about Amanda. I won't post it here .... but I will post an article released by the Richmond BC Police about the crime.
Link Removed

 

[DharmaGirl]

I saw the video about Amada Todd. So sad, what a waste of a life. Please watch your children on the internet.

 

[shrinkingviolet]

Thank you @shimmerz for sharing this. I've educated my kids on this but still foubf my step daughter was chatting with someone online who she thought was her age. We nipped it in the bud immediately. Predators often pretend to be peers. The kids are only allowed to use the computer in our living room and we have their passwords to social media. We don't snoop but they know to friend only those they actually know. We've also discussed how important it is to respect themselves and to expect it from others.