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Child predators who once targeted children at playgrounds and parks can now reach children more easily by using the Internet to mask their identities. They often lavish children with attention and gifts, devoting considerable time and money to “groom” them for sexual exploitation. They will listen and empathize with children’s problems, and learn about their music, hobbies, and interests in order to relate to them. As children’s inhibitions are lowered, they begin to feel more comfortable with their “online friend.” Over time, sexual themes and materials are introduced into the relationship.
Some predators will approach children online and encourage them to produce and send pornographic images of themselves. These offenders may trade the images worldwide, victimizing the child for the rest of his or her life.
“This person becomes their best friend. It’s a specific point-by-point process where a predator tries to make friends, make trust, make it a secretive affair, and then basically turns victims against their families.”
— Jeff Godlis, i-SAFE (nonprofit group for Internet safety education) director of communications
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