The AFP-led Australian Centre to Counter Child Exploitation (ACCCE) is urging parents to understand the double meaning of emojis and acronyms to help identify if their children are being targeted by online predators.
AFP Commander Human Exploitation Helen Schneider said with many students receiving their own tablets and mobile phones for the first time ahead of their return to school, now was the perfect time for parents to have a conversation with their children about their online communication.
Commander Schneider said the AFP was today releasing a list of emojis and acronyms to help parents understand the language often used by online predators, who use language to connect with youth.
“Emojis and acronyms are commonly used in online communication and are usually harmless fun, but some have double meanings that are well known and some that are not,” Commander Schneider said.
“Our recent experience has shown that in some situations emojis like the angry face emoji could be a sign that your child is the victim of online grooming.
“It is important to stress that in most cases it is probably nothing to worry about but having a healthy relationship with your children about their safety online can help you decide if there’s an issue.
“While we know parents often want to respect the privacy of their children, having honest and open conversations about what they communicate, and what is being communicated to them, could help prevent them falling victims to predators, many who pretend to be children or teens.
ThinkUKnow is an AFP-led resource that helps parents, carers, educators and children develop good online habits that protect children and deter offenders.
It provides factsheets, videos, presentations, guides, children’s picture book Jack Changes the Game, home learning and family activities to help with foster open discussions between children and their guardians.
“Electronic communication is constantly changing and it can be difficult for parents and carers to keep up,” Commander Schneider said.
“That’s why having a healthy dialogue with your children is the best defence you can have.
“And remember if you suspect a child has been the victim of online exploitation please don’t hesitate to report it to the ACCCE. If you know abuse is happening right now or a child is at risk, call police immediately on 000.”
Top tips for parents and carers
- Keep your child’s personal information including full name and age private
- Ensure the background of photos or videos doesn’t give away your address or location, (and don’t post your location or ‘check in’)
- Avoid posting photos in school uniform
- Only share images of your children with people you know and trust
- For community accounts, consider having a closed group with approved members and ensure you have strong privacy settings in place.
Recent examples of emoji use
Emoji/slang | Context |
