Parents commonly have questions about which apps are “bad” or “risky” for children. While this is a completely understandable question, apps change and trend so frequently that focusing on specific apps could cause us to miss risky behavior taking place on other platforms or devices. It is important to know that all platforms that allow communication between individuals, whether it be social media apps, online games, or virtual reality can pose risks.
- Know the apps and games your children use. Learn their functions, goals, age recommendations, potential risks, and how to respond appropriately.
- Assess potential risks of the app or game, whether it be exposure to inappropriate content or other uses. Determine whether appropriate and enable privacy settings accordingly.
- Kids have varying levels of social and psychological development and maturation. Determine whether your child is prepared and emotionally equipped to engage in particular app and game environments.
The Internet Crimes Against Children (ICAC) Task Force Program is a national network of 61 coordinated task forces, representing over 5,400 federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies, dedicated to investigating, prosecuting, and developing effective responses to internet crimes against children.
One of the best tools we have to prevent internet crimes against children is education. Educating the public through the development and delivery of public awareness and prevention programs is also one of the many important initiatives of the ICAC Task Force Program. Since 1998, members of the ICAC Task Force Program have delivered more than 194,000 community outreach presentations to local communities across the nation.
Additional Resources can be found here.
Source: https://www.icactaskforce.org/
If you have been the victim of a crime and want to speak with a deputy or a detective, please call (812) 421-6201.