Online crimes against children rampant; North Dakota Task Force agents work to catch predators and protect kids.
Online crimes against children have become increasingly common with the prevalence of the internet in our lives. North Dakota Task Force agents are actively working to track down predators who attempt to contact unsuspecting and trusting kids. Tricia Brown, a parent from Bismarck, is fearful of her daughter giving out information to someone pretending to be her age. Fourth grader Karisma has been taught by her mother to be aware of the risks of the internet.
The North Dakota Bureau of Criminal Investigation receives CyberTips from internet service providers, which have increased by 500% in the past six years. Chief Agent Steven Harstad says this is due to more people having access to the internet at a younger age, as well as people doing a better job of reporting suspicious activity. The Task Force has had “good success” in tracking down criminals in North Dakota, resulting in roughly 200 arrests for people attempting to meet up with or defraud children or trade explicit and abusive materials of children.
Chief Agent Harstad emphasizes the importance of education and open communication in keeping kids safe. He also says that although there are real dangers with serious consequences, the internet can remain a useful tool and entertainment source. Parts 2 and 3 of the multi-part series “Virtual Vigilance” from Your News Leader will provide more information on what happens after a criminal is caught and how educators help kids stay safe.
Online crimes against children have become an alarming issue with the prevalence of the internet in our lives. North Dakota Task Force agents are actively working to track down predators who attempt to contact unsuspecting and trusting kids. Tricia Brown, a parent from Bismarck, is fearful of her daughter giving out information to someone pretending to be her age. Fourth grader Karisma has been taught by her mother to be aware of the risks of the internet.
The North Dakota Bureau of Criminal Investigation receives CyberTips from internet service providers, which have increased by 500% in the past six years. Chief Agent Steven Harstad says this is due to more people having access to the internet at a younger age, as well as people doing a better job of reporting suspicious activity. The Task Force has had “good success” in tracking down criminals in North Dakota, resulting in roughly 200 arrests for people attempting to meet up with or defraud children or trade explicit and abusive materials of children.
Chief Agent Harstad emphasizes the importance of education and open communication in keeping kids safe. He also says that although there are real dangers with serious consequences, the internet can remain a useful tool and entertainment source. Parts 2 and 3 of the multi-part series “Virtual Vigilance” from Your News Leader will provide more information on what happens after a criminal is caught and how educators help kids stay safe.
Online crimes against children are a growing issue due to the prevalence of the internet in our lives. North Dakota Task Force agents are actively working to track down predators who attempt to contact unsuspecting and trusting kids. Tricia Brown, a parent from Bismarck, is fearful of her daughter giving out information to someone pretending to be her age. Fourth grader Karisma has been taught by her mother to be aware of the risks of the internet.
The North Dakota Bureau of Criminal Investigation receives CyberTips from internet service providers, which have increased by 500% in the past six years. Chief Agent Steven Harstad attributes this to more people having access to the internet at a younger age, as well as people doing a better job of reporting suspicious activity. The Task Force has had “good success” in tracking down criminals in North Dakota, resulting in roughly 200 arrests for people attempting to meet up with or defraud children or trade explicit and abusive materials of children.
Chief Agent Harstad stresses the importance of education and open communication in keeping kids safe. He also says that although there are real dangers with serious consequences, the internet can remain a useful tool and entertainment source. Parts 2 and 3 of the multi-part series “Virtual Vigilance” from Your News Leader will provide more information on what happens after a criminal is caught and how educators help kids stay safe.
Online crimes against children are a growing concern as the internet continues to be a large part of life for many Americans. North Dakota Task Force agents are actively working to track down predators who attempt to contact unsuspecting and trusting kids. Tricia Brown, a parent from Bismarck, is fearful of her daughter giving out information to someone pretending to be her age. Fourth grader Karisma has been taught by her mother to be aware of the risks of the internet.
The North Dakota Bureau of Criminal Investigation receives CyberTips from internet service providers, which have increased by 500% in the past six years. Chief Agent Steven Harstad attributes this to more people having access to the internet at a younger age, as well as people doing a better job of reporting suspicious activity. The Task Force has had “good success” in tracking down criminals in North Dakota, resulting in roughly 200 arrests for people attempting to meet up with or defraud children or trade explicit and abusive materials of children.
Chief Agent Harstad emphasizes the importance of education and open communication in keeping kids safe. He also says that although there are real dangers with serious consequences, the internet can remain a useful tool and entertainment source. Parts 2 and 3 of the multi-part series “Virtual Vigilance” from Your News Leader will provide more information on what happens after a criminal is caught and how educators help kids stay safe. The series will also discuss strategies to keep children safe while using the internet.
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