RCMP warn parents of rise of online bullying, exploitation among youth in White Rock, B.C.
White Rock RCMP issued a statement Monday morning describing a noticed increase in 'negative behaviours' on the internet, particularly on apps that users believe can not be traced back to them, alongside a reminder that youth aged 12 and older can be charged with Criminal Code offences for online misconduct.
This includes serious offences such as sharing intimate images of another youth without consent, online harassment, or making threats through digital platforms.
Children and teenagers are advised to never share personal or explicit photos or videos, and to not talk to strangers online — even if they seem to be a child or teenager themselves.
Any suspicious or uncomfortable behavior should be reported to a trusted adult, said the RCMP.
'If you wouldn't want your parent, teacher or coach to see what you are sending, it's probably not appropriate to send,' said Youth Relations Officer Const. Chantal Sears, in a news release.
'Social media apps such as Snapchat and Discord, and others, can be traced back to you even after what you have sent disappears or is deleted. It's important to treat your online life as you would your regular life.'
As for parents, the RCMP recommended they work to gain a better understanding of what apps their child uses, who they are talking to online, and what content they are sharing.
Boundaries should be set, with clear rules established for when screen time is allowed and where in the home devices can be used.
'I have yet to investigate a file where nude images were sent from the kitchen or family room. They have always been sent from the bedroom or bathroom with parents or guardians present inside the home,' said Sears.
Conversations should be embarked on regarding online behavior and what content is appropriate, and parents should create a safe space for their child or children to report anything uncomfortable they experience online.
The RCMP suggests enabling privacy settings on all devices.
Sudden changes in behavior, secrecy about phone use, or receiving gifts or money can be 'red flags' that signal there may be issues online, Mounties said.
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