Youngsters are being urged to avoid ‘dangerous predators’ and think more carefully about their online behavior as part of GMP’s Safer Internet Day campaign.
The event aims to promote safer and more responsible use of online technology and mobile phones amongst children and young people.
The advice comes after a year in which child grooming has come into increased focus, with police making numerous arrests in and around Manchester.
Crime Commissioner Tony Lloyd said: “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.”
Campaigners say young people using the internet should be particularly aware of strange requests or odd behaviour, especially those of a sexual nature.
Last week Denton resident Eddie Piwco was sentenced to two years in prison after being found guilty of attempting to groom teenage girls online.
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.
“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 has been held every February since 2004, and promotes safer use of technology and the internet, especially amongst children and young people.
Image courtesy of La.linea, with thanks.
