Georgetown Man Charged with Child Luring on Social Media
After a 2-month investigation, Toronto Police charged Sean Caschera, 33, of Georgetown with luring children on social media. The Georgetown man was charged with making sexually explicit material available to a person under 16 years of age, luring a child under 16, luring a child under 18, attempt invitation to sexual touching and attempt to make child pornography. Allegedly, Caschera used the handle “toker84to” on a social media site to lure children. https://www.insidehalton.com/news-story/8648611-updated-georgetown-man-charged-in-child-luring-investigation/
It is important for parents to talk to their children about social media dangers, precautions and what to do if they or someone they know is targeted.
SOS For Kids! provides a comprehensive safety program that prepares children to stay home alone. An essential part of the course is online safety and the dangers of the internet. As per SOS For Kids!, children should not share any personal information such as age, address, school and personal photos. Children should check with parents If any personal information is shared on social media such as photos prior to posting. Once messages or photos are posted, they can never be fully erased. Others can retweet, repost or tag you, leaving a digital footprint. For more information on SOS For Kids! In class and online home alone course, go to https://safetycoursesforkids.com .
Another great resource for parents is The Canadian Red Cross’ website. http://www.redcross.ca/how-we-help/violence–bullying-and-abuse-prevention/parents/kids–safety-online.
The Red Cross recommends parents to set rules around internet use and stress that people online may not be who they say they are. Other suggestions include keeping the computer where it is visible to parents and being aware of who kids are spending time with online.
Halton Police suggest parents and guardians first approve websites and chatrooms used by a child and if a child sees anything unsettling on the internet, report it to a teacher, parent or guardian. Parents may also want to set filters or install software that restrict children from being on certain sites. It is also imperative that parents stress to their children that they are not to engage in communication or meet up with an online stranger. https://www.haltonpolice.ca/about/specializedunits/ice.php
Another resource is www.cybertip.ca. If you suspect online sexual exploitation of children, report it to the police or you can report it to Cybertip.ca. The organization will process tips as well as provide resources, referrals, and information to the public regarding online safety.
Article provided by Rita Ganassini
