Government urges parents to safeguard children against online grooming
Guardians are being advised to set strict screen-time limits and monitor online activity as official warnings over cyber safety intensify.
The South African government has urged parents and guardians to monitor their children’s online activities and regularly discuss internet safety to protect them from grooming, sexual exploitation and cyberbullying.
Bloemfontein Courant reports that parents are encouraged to set reasonable screen-time limits, monitor the apps and websites their children use, and teach them never to share personal information with strangers.
Children should also be told to report to a trusted adult immediately if someone approaches them, makes them feel uncomfortable or asks them to keep a secret.
The government further advises parents to ensure children know where to seek help if they become lost, including from a police officer, security officer or staff member at a nearby shop.
Anyone who suspects that a child is missing should report the matter immediately at their nearest police station. There is no waiting period before a missing person can be reported.
For assistance, members of the public can contact Crime Stop on 08600 10111 or Missing Children South Africa on 072 647 7464. Missing children can also be reported online through the Missing Children South Africa portal.
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Read original story on www.bloemfonteincourant.co.za
