Beware of online sexual exploitation, says police commissioner

It's not OK

As part of Safer Internet Day today (Tuesday 10 February), Greater Manchester Police and Crime Commissioner Tony Lloyd is asking young people to think carefully when chatting to people online or arranging to meet up with someone face to face for the first time.

Mr Lloyd said: “We’re all online these days, especially young people, but we need to be aware of the dangers that are out there.

“The internet is a wonderful place for finding information, playing games, and socialising, but it’s also home to dangerous predators looking for vulnerable young people to prey upon and sexually exploit.

“If you’re a young person and someone is behaving oddly online, talking about sex, urging you to strip on camera, or asking you to meet up face to face when you’ve only met them online, please tell someone and report it.”

Safer Internet Day is held in February each year to promote safer and more responsible use of online technology and mobile phones, especially amongst children and young people across the world.

Young people or worried parents and carers can report suspicious behaviour at the CEOP website:

www.ceop.police.uk/Ceop-Report/

The CEOP site contains online safety information for all ages, covering sexting, using webcams safely, and reporting suspicious behaviour.

You can also contact Greater Manchester Police on 101 or contact your local child sexual exploitation team at:

www.itsnotokay.co.uk

In an emergency, always dial 999.