RCMP warn parents to stay wary about their children’s online activity

By MEDICINE HAT NEWS on July 17, 2025.

Local RCMP are calling on parents to stay vigilant about their children’s online activity this summer as they may encounter predators while using popular apps and platforms.

In a public statement released Wednesday, police provide parents and guardians with tips to keep children safe while they are on sites like Snapchat, Instagram, Roblox as well as gaming consoles including Xbox and Playstation.

“In some cases, it can take as little as 10 minutes from first contact to becoming a victim of sextortion or other forms of online sexploitation,” reads the statement. “Predators are initiating contact through gaming platforms and social media, then quickly moving conversations to private, unmonitored spaces.”

Police say it’s important to talk openly and regularly with your children about who they’re interacting with online and remind them never to share personal photos, information or passwords.

Parents are also encouraged to check friend lists and block suspicious accounts. Parents can also use control and privacy settings found on all devices and most apps.

“Encourage your child to talk to you in anything online makes them uncomfortable.”