The recent federal indictment of a Sturgeon Bay man for child pornography production has local law enforcement stressing the importance of safeguarding your child from potential predators online. Door County Sheriff Deputy Pat McCarty says the most important tip he can give parents is to monitor their child’s activity on social media and electronic devices. He notes that many times parents may not even know who their child is interacting with online.
McCarty notes that predators often look for opportunities to groom children for illicit purposes.
McCarty says that law enforcement sees younger and younger children being approached online by people with nefarious intentions. Parents should put restrictions and controls on their child’s mobile devices, as well as monitoring and putting oversight in play. McCarty suggests sitting down with your son or daughter and having a conversation if you notice a change in your child’s behavior or activity.