Internet Safety
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The Maryland Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force (ICAC) investigates reports of online sexual exploitation involving children. The task force also works to educate parents and children about online risks and how to stay safe from online predators.
When to make a report
The Maryland Department of State Police (MDSP) encourages anyone to report online crimes involving children, including exploitation, solicitation, or enticement. If you believe a child or teen may be in danger, contact law enforcement as soon as possible. This applies whether the person involved is an adult, teen, or child.
You should report a situation if someone:
- Harasses a child or teen or makes them feel unsafe online
- Asks or pressures a child or teen to share sexual images or videos
- Threatens to share private images unless more photos or money are provided
- Creates, shares, or has child sexual abuse material
Important: This is not a complete list. If you suspect a child or teen is being exploited or abused online, report it.
Ways to report online child exploitation
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Call 911Contact your local or state law enforcement officials directly.
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Call the National Center for Missing & Exploited Children’The Call Center, is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
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Submit a CyberTipline ReportSubmit a report with the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children.
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Call the Know2Protect TiplineCall 1-833-591-5669 to report a crime. All information will be reviewed and referred for a potential investigation.
Internet Safety Tips for Parents
Below are some general safety tips for parents to educate and empower their children to use the Internet safely and securely.
- Set clear guidelines before you give your child an electronic device.
- Educate your child about online safety and the risks of oversharing.
- Control online activity by using parental monitoring and website blocking apps.
- Get passwords to your child's accounts.
- Set time limits.
- Research apps before downloading and check privacy settings.
- Set social media accounts to private and turn off location sharing.
- Never meet online strangers without confirming their identity.
- Be careful when sharing or downloading content.
- Never give personal information to unknown people or in response to unexpected messages.
- Encourage open conversations about the internet and its dangers.
Resources
- Request an Internet Safety Presentations
- National Center for Missing and Exploited Children Cyber Tip Line
- Protect Young Eyes
- Take It Down
- Stop Sextortion
- Know2Protect
- Online Child Exploitation Prevention Initiative
- Protecting Kids Online
- NetSmartz
- Maryland Children’s Alliance Center
- Stop, Think, Connect
- 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline