August 4, 2024 – San Diego Police Department officials report that the San Diego Internet Crimes Against Children (SDICAC) Task Force is one of sixty-one nationally organized task forces working to combat the online enticement and exploitation of children. SDICAC encourages parents and guardians to be a part of their children's digital world, know the applications they are using, and who they are speaking to online. Here are just a few tips on how you can stay involved in your child's online world:
SAFETY TIPS:
- If your child is a gamer, so are you!
- Ask questions about the game.
- Play the game with your child.
- Does your child like to watch YouTubers play video games?
Use those videos to determine if gameplay is appropriate for your child.
- Limit your child's screen time.
Warn your child of any red flag questions that seek personal information if chatting with other gamers:
How old are you?
What time is it where you are?
What school do you go to?
Do you have brothers or sisters?
What time do your parents come home?
NOTE: While social media requires you to be at least 13 years of age to create an account, video games do not have an age requirement. Vigilance is key!
To report child exploitation or enticement, file a CyberTip Report with the National Center for Missing & Exploited Children (NCMEC). Reports may be made 24 hours a day, 7 days a week online at: https://report.cybertip.org.
Source & photos: San Diego Police Department
