Cyber Grooming
Cyber grooming is when an adult builds a fake emotional connection with a minor online to exploit, manipulate, or abuse them—often for sexual purposes. The groomer gains trust through flattery, gifts, or emotional manipulation before introducing inappropriate behavior.
- Possible Dangers
• Emotional and psychological trauma
• Sexual exploitation or abuse
• Blackmail using shared personal content
• Long-term trust and relationship issues
- Risky Digital Practices
• Chatting with strangers on messaging apps or games
• Sharing personal information like photos, school details, or contact info
• Accepting friend requests from unknown profiles
• Responding to flattery or emotionally manipulative conversations
- Precautionary Cybersecurity Practices
• Teach children to avoid chatting with strangers online
• Keep privacy settings strict on all devices and platforms
• Encourage open conversations between children and parents
• Report suspicious behavior on platforms and to cybercrime.gov.in
• Use parental control tools and monitor app usage
• Use tools and site like - Take It Down - https://takeitdown.ncmec.org/ or https://stopncii.org or CyberTipline.org or https://www.missingkids.org/IsYourExplicitContentOutThere. to report and remove explicit content.
• You can also contact child helpline number 1098 for any assistance regarding cases related to children online sexual exploitation.
- Fictional Case Study: Sneha’s Online Romance Trap
Meera, a 15-year-old, began chatting with someone named "Rahul" in a gaming app who pretended to be a schoolboy. He gradually asked her for personal pictures, claiming affection. When she refused, he threatened to leak their chats. Terrified, Meera confided in her elder sister, and the family reported the matter to the police, who took swift action.