The Alberta Law Enforcement Response Team is reminding parents to keep a close eye on what their kids are doing online.

ALERT’s Internet Child Exploitation (ICE) unit said it has experienced a record number of investigative referrals during the past month. In March, ICE received 243 reported instances of online child exploitation in Alberta. That far exceeds the unit’s two-year average of roughly 110.

ALERT CEO Supt. Dwayne Lakusta believes the increase is due in part to the fact children and parents are spending more time at home and on the internet because of COVID-19 and social distancing measures.

“With children being home from school, not only are they spending more time online, but it appears that so are the predators. And they are looking to take advantage of our most vulnerable population: our kids,” said Lakusta.

During the first three months of 2020, the ICE unit made 21 arrests and laid 61 charges in communities across Alberta. As a result of the arrests, ALERT said four children were rescued from sexual exploitation, abuse and/or instances of luring. 

Lakusta is telling parents to make it their business to know how their kids are engaging with others on their computers, tablets and/or smartphones.

“As a parent myself, I have recently noticed some concerning online behavior and have had to be even more diligent in monitoring what apps my child is using and who they are engaging with,” said Lakusta. “All parents need to be vigilant of their kids’ online activities.”

ICE is anticipating the increase to continue through the month of April.

ALERT is partnering with the Canadian Centre for Child Protection to warn parents and make internet safety resources available.

“During these unprecedented times and higher than usual online connectivity, it is essential that we work together to educate the public on the risks and ways to reduce harm to children while online,” said Signy Arnason, Associate Executive Director of the Canadian Centre for Child Protection.

“Cybertip.ca has seen an increase in reporting involving offenders attempting to lure and sextort children through various chat and live streaming platforms. Now more than ever, parents/guardians must be vigilant in knowing who their children are connecting with online.”

More information and resources for families and caregivers can be found HERE.

Anyone with information about any child exploitation offence is encouraged to contact local police or cybertip.ca.

 

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