Parents and guardians should stay informed about their children’s daily online activities.

Active supervision can help protect children from online grooming, sexual exploitation and cyberbullying.

Set reasonable screen-time limits, monitor the apps and websites they use, and discuss online safety regularly.

Teach children never to share personal information with strangers. Furthermore, encourage them to tell a trusted adult immediately if someone approaches them, makes them feel uncomfortable, or asks them to keep a secret.

Make sure children know what to do if they become lost. They should seek help from a police officer, security officer or staff member at a nearby shop.

If you suspect that a child is missing, act immediately. Report the matter at the nearest police station; there is no waiting period for reporting a missing person.

For assistance, contact

• Crime Stop on 08600 10111
• Missing Children South Africa on 072 647 7464.
• A missing child can also be reported online at https://missingchildren.org.za/report/