Who are online sexual predators?

Sexual predators try to force or coerce others who wouldn’t otherwise consent into sexual activity. When their targets are minors, these people are called pedophiles. But don’t buy into the stereotype that all sexual predators are dirty old men – they can be any age at all!

Sexual predators make contact with vulnerable kids through chat rooms, email, instant messaging, social networks, virtual communities and discussion forums. They can quickly establish a relationship of trust with kids who do not have enough experience or judgement to see through the ploy. They seduce their victims by showering them with gifts, compassion, attention and affection. They gradually steer the conversation towards sexual topics and may try to convince kids to meet them in person.

Pedophilia is unfortunately not a new phenomenon spawned by the Internet. However, the Internet has created new opportunities for pedophiles to make contact with potential victims. On the Web, they can remain anonymous and engage in illegal practices with less risk of detection.

How can the danger be identified?

During the pre-teen years (ages 7-11), children start asserting their independence and don’t want to be constantly monitored by their parents. They don’t think about the danger and take risks on the Internet without realizing the potential consequences. Teens between the ages of 11 and 14 are also at risk, though some of them may have developed self-defence mechanisms to protect themselves on the Internet. They’re quick to trust strangers they meet on the Internet and will readily give out personal information or even compromising photos of themselves!

You should be concerned if your child :

• Spends a lot of time on the Internet.
• Saves pornographic materials on their computer.
• Receives telephone calls from people you don’t know.
• Receives emails or gifts by mail from strangers.
• Is becoming increasingly isolated and no longer spends time with friends.
• Stops all computer activities when you approach.
• Often uses the Internet outside the home.

How can you protect your children from sexual predators?

Encourage your kids to adopt safe habits to protect themselves from sexual predators :

• Never agree to meet with a stranger or, at the very least, bring someone along and set up the meeting in a public place, during the day.
• Choose a neutral nickname (or screen name) that doesn’t suggest your age and that isn’t sexually suggestive.
• Never give out personal information during online conversations.
• Never display any personal information (such as your real name) in a social networking profile and restrict access to real friends.
• Never send sexy pics to people you only know online!

Visit the Instant messaging (chatting) and social networks section for more information about what can happen when you share too much personal information.

If your child is being harassed by a sexual predator or a pedophile, you should immediately report it to your local police department or contact Cybertip. You can also report Internet abuse on the Videotron website. Videotron is actively involved in investigations into misuse of its network.