Police Warn of Online Dangers

Queensland Police have issued a warning to parents and guardians about the heightened risk of online child abuse during the school holidays, a time when predators are most active. Detective Acting Inspector Cory Schmidt of the QPS Argos unit emphasized the need for increased vigilance, highlighting that predators often exploit popular apps, games, and social media platforms to target children.

According to recent research from the eSafety commissioner, one in four young individuals have encountered strangers online, with some experiencing grooming behaviors. Schmidt urges parents to discuss online safety, including the importance of recognizing unsafe situations and maintaining privacy.

The Queensland Police stress the community’s role in reporting suspicious activity, encouraging parents to engage in open dialogues with their children and to monitor their online interactions. For concerns, the police advise immediate contact through established channels, including Crime Stoppers and Policelink.

The school holidays present an opportunity to educate children about safeguarding their digital presence, from keeping passwords private to understanding the impact of their online behavior. For more resources on protecting children online, visit the Queensland Police website.