SOUTH DAKOTA, S.D. – Law enforcement officials and child advocates are encouraging parents to have ongoing conversations with their children about online safety following a recent case involving an alleged online predator.
Investigators say gaming platforms and other child-focused apps can be used by predators to contact and groom young users. In a recent federal case, authorities allege a suspect used the online gaming platform Roblox and a connected cellphone to communicate with and target an 11-year-old girl in South Carolina.
Officials warn that predators often use chat features in games and social media apps to build trust with children before attempting to move conversations to private messaging platforms.
South Middle School Principal Darren Schmidt says children need to understand that a friendly username does not necessarily belong to a trustworthy person. Experts recommend parents regularly review privacy settings, keep internet-connected devices in shared family spaces, and remind children never to accept messages or friend requests from strangers.
Anyone who suspects online exploitation is encouraged to contact local law enforcement or the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children.
