It can take only minutes for online child sex offenders to gain trust and form ‘friendships’ with potential victims.

Offenders use a variety of tactics to groom children.

Some may be sophisticated, using multiple platforms and multiple identities.

Others will simply contact as many children as possible, hoping some will give in to their demands. Some may only target a single child.

Online grooming can also be difficult to detect as online child sex offenders can be manipulative and encourage or shame victims into keeping their interactions a secret.

Have open and non-judgemental conversations and be approachable if your child comes to you for help.