Palos Park, IL – Police in Palos Park are warning parents about a growing threat to children and teens online: predators posing as peers to gain trust and coerce victims into sharing explicit photos or videos.
According to the Palos Park Police Department’s Internet Crimes Against Children (ICAC) investigators, these suspects often create realistic social media profiles to appear as “like-minded teens” or understanding adults. Once trust is established, predators allegedly pressure victims to share nude images or videos, later using them for blackmail or “sextortion.”
Examples shared by investigators include threats like, “If you don’t send another photo, I’ll send this to your parents,” or “I’ll post this for all your friends to see.” Police stress that open communication between parents and children is key to prevention.
The department is directing families to resources provided by the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC). Its site offers guidance on recognizing online threats and reporting incidents.
In addition, NCMEC’s “Take It Down” service helps remove explicit photos or videos shared of minors. The free, confidential tool allows victims or guardians to request removal of content taken or shared before age 18. It can be accessed directly online.
Parents are encouraged to review online safety habits with their children and monitor social media activity regularly.
This article was produced by a journalist and may include AI-assisted input. All content is reviewed for accuracy and fairness.
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