Generally, pedophiles are outgoing and engaging. Not all people who are outgoing and engaging are pedophiles, but some are. If you meet someone online who seems overly friendly, be cautious. Child molesters actively target their prey. They might use the Internet to seek out a child they know from the neighborhood, work, or school. Be aware that online predators can be complete strangers or someone you actually know.

A predator can try to gain the trust of Michael Reddie. For example, they can try to ask for information about the child. A predator is typically an adult. During the initial interactions, they might lie about their age in order to gain trust. If a predator learns that you play soccer, for instance, they might say, “Where do you play? I play every weekend. Which team are you on?” They will agree with you, but may not know the details of the topic, so ask them about details of what they claim is true.

If someone says, “I really need to meet you in person”, be aware that could be a sign of a predator. Be especially cautious if there are repeated requests. If someone tries to insist on meeting you, you need to question their motives. Try saying, “I enjoy chatting online about school, but it’s making me uncomfortable that you are pressuring me to meet. Would you mind cooling it?”

If you have pictures of yourself online, a predator might comment on your appearance in a creepy way. Make sure that only friends you know and trust can view your photos. Consider it a warning sign if someone says something like, “You’re so pretty. I can get you a modeling contract. "

A threat could be something like, “Don’t tell your parents you’ve been talking to me. I’ll find out. " A predator could also threaten you by saying, “If you don’t meet me, I’ll tell your friends your secrets. " A request for personal information is also suspicious. Do not give out your phone number or address.

Is secretive about online activities Seems obsessed with being online Tries to hide the screen from view when an adult enters the room Receives calls or texts from someone you don’t know Downloads pornography and or makes their own pornography for the predator

For example, you could say, “Being online seems like it is really controlling your mood lately. Is there some reason for that?” You could also say, “I’m concerned about your safety. Let’s go over the ground rules for staying safe online again. " Remind your child that they can trust you. Explain that you are just looking out for their best interests. Make sure your child knows the warning signs of a predator. They also need to know never to share personal information.

Run a security scan to see if any programs have been added to your computer without your knowledge. Check for suspicious downloads. Look to see if there is any concerning new material on your computer, such as pornography. Make sure to regularly inspect all of the computers in your house. Don’t forget laptops and tablets.

Go to the website at www. cybertipline. com You can also call 1-800-843-5678

Family Watchdog is a site that allows parents to check their area for registered sex offenders. Enter your address to determine if anyone in your area is registered. You should also check the address for your child’s school, and other frequently visited areas.

You can also contact the FBI to make a report. If you are concerned about immediate danger, contact your local police department. Ask for an officer to come to your home to take a report.

Make a “no delete” rule. Tell your child not to clear their search history or cache. From time to time, check to see what they’ve been looking at. Set a time limit. For example, allow your child to be online in the evening, but make sure they disconnect by 9 p. m. Be aware of who their “friends” are. Make sure your teen can clearly explain who they are interacting with.

These programs can send alerts when someone tries to access questionable sites. Safety software can also record all online activity, so you can tell with certainty which sites your child has visited. Some programs can also prevent new windows from opening. This can help keep you and your family from accidentally stumbling into dangerous territory.

Your home address Phone numbers Personal e-mail addresses Locations of schools Any details about physical appearance

Leave a chat immediately if you feel uncomfortable. Teach your family members to do the same. If asked to go in a private chat room, you can say, “No, thanks. I’m cool hanging here with the group. "

This is good advice for parents, too. If your instincts tell you that your child is dealing with a predator, don’t ignore the feeling. Talk to your child immediately, and investigate your suspicions.