Not all online predators are older men looking to seduce children. Some are using a child’s trust to blackmail them. While some of them do want sexual favors, some are after money.

The most popular blackmail scheme begins when the predator earns the child’s trust. He (or in rare cases she) may have the child send nude pictures or reveal some other type of embarrassing secret.  The predator threatens to show the pics or reveal the secret if the child does not give into his demands.

While a few cases have been reported, blackmail is often an unreported crime because the child is embarrassed. To keep you child from being a victim here are some steps you can take:

1. Monitor you child’s online activity with a program like KidsEmail.org.

2. Talk to your kids often about online safety. Let them know that they can come to you if they have a problem online.

3. Be wary of any new online friends your child has. Predators don’t appear scary at first. They gain a child’s friendship and trust.

If your child is a victim, be careful not to make them feel badly. They are a victim. Give them your support and most importantly, talk to the police. As long as predators continue to get away with their crimes, they will continue.