Manitoba RCMP warns parents of growing trend in self-exploitation on social media

Manitoba RCMP are warning parents of a growing trend in self-exploitation on social media.

Self-exploitation is generally defined as youth creating, sending or sharing sexual images and/or video of themselves with peers online through social media apps like YouTube, TikTok, Instagram or through electronic devices, police say.

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Police say the internet child exploitation unit has seen a surge in reports from social media platforms concerning children sharing videos online, frequently associated with their parents social media accounts or devices.

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In 2023, the unit received 652 such reports, up from 242 in 2022.

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“We encourage parents and guardians to talk to their children about online safety and to be vigilant of unsolicited friend requests,” said Cpl. Gord Olson.

“Safe online habits can go a long way to protecting kids from exploitation, but parent awareness is also key.”

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