AFP warns predators are targeting innocent back-to-school pictures of kids for child abuse material

As Victorian students prepare to return to school, police have warned parents to be vigilant for predators, revealing the hidden risks in posting photos to social media.

The Australian Federal Police has two messages for parents as their kids head back to school: listen for reports of online sexual exploitation and be wary of your child’s privacy if you plan to post back to school pics.

The AFP is warning parents who want to post back-to-school photos to be vigilant, as predators can target them for “text-based” child abuse.

AFP Commander Helen Schneider said although parents often want to mark the important milestone, there were risks involved.

“The AFP has seen non-explicit pictures of children and young people become the target of highly sexualised and inappropriate comments or role play, which our investigators define as text-based child abuse material,” she said.

AFP Commander Helen Schneider has some tips for parents wanting to post back-to-school pictures. Picture: File

Parents should also be wary of any information they may be giving away in the post, Ms Schneider said.

“Small actions can mitigate big risks,” she said. “Something as simple as blurring or obscuring the logo of your child’s school on their uniform or in the background of an image can help ensure they don’t become a target.

“Seemingly innocuous details – such as a child or young person’s favourite hobby or a street address visible on the front door – can enable offenders to build a profile of the child with the intent of grooming them, or even manipulating parents or carers to gain access or leverage.

“I also urge parents and carers to check their privacy settings to ensure pictures and information can only be accessed by trusted friends and relatives.”

The AFP is warning parents to be vigilant as the new school year gets underway. Picture: File

Back to school time is also when children will often speak of any exploitation attempts they experienced during the holidays, according to the AFP.

The Australian Centre to Counter Child Exploitation shows there is generally a spike in reporting immediately after school holidays when kids get back to school and talk to their friends about their breaks.

Ms Schneider said it was important parents listen to their children during this back to school period.

“When children and young people head back to school and reconnect with friends and their schooling community, they may discuss any inappropriate online contact they received,” she said.

“If your child has been targeted, reassure them it’s not their fault and there is help available.”

Originally published as AFP warns predators are targeting innocent back-to-school pictures of kids for child abuse material