Grooming & Exploitation
This is a serious topic. Learn to recognize the warning signs of online grooming and know how to get help.
Your Safety is Most Important
The content on this page deals with sensitive issues. If anything you read makes you feel uncomfortable, unsafe, or reminds you of a situation you or a friend are in, please stop reading and immediately talk to a trusted adult or contact a service like Childline or CEOP.
What is Online Grooming?
Online grooming is when someone—usually an adult—builds an emotional connection with a young person online to gain their trust. Their goal is to eventually exploit that young person, often for sexual purposes, blackmail, or to get them to do something illegal. It's a deliberate and manipulative process.
It is never, ever the young person's fault. Groomers are experts at manipulation. They prey on kindness, trust, and insecurities. Knowing their tactics is the best way to spot them and protect yourself and your friends.
Red Flags: Manipulative Tactics to Watch For
If You See Something, Say Something
If a friendship or conversation online ever feels secret, weird, or makes you uncomfortable, that's a huge red flag. Trust your gut. It's not being disloyal to talk to a trusted adult about it; it's being smart and safe. Reporting your concerns could save you or a friend from serious harm.
Test Your Knowledge
Parent Quiz: The "Uh-Oh" Moment
Your reaction is everything. Practice how you'll respond when they come to you for help.