Online Risks in the News
Online Risks You Shouldn't Miss
Gangs, online extremists, and criminals are using apps like Instagram, Snapchat, TikTok, and even video games targeting youth. We often think "not in my back yard". But in reality, these online risks are real and happening across the world. These risks are real and contributing to a new epidemic. Often parents are completely unaware that this is happening in their home and community, read more here:
Gangs and Social Media
Gangs are using popular social media platforms like Instagram, Snapchat, TikTok, and even gaming or music apps to recruit teens. They exploit these spaces with manipulative tactics, luring youth with promises of money and status, which threatens the safety of both youth and schools. No community is immune. Organized crime follows the presence of drugs, even in smaller communities.
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Online Radicalization
Violent online radicalization is an emerging threat, with extremist groups increasingly targeting youth through social media and online platforms. Apps and games like Discord, Telegram, and Minecraft are commonly used by groups such as the 764 to recruit and influence young people.
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The Dark Web and the Drug Trade
Drug trade moves from the street to the web. The rise of dark web drug markets through encrypted online platforms is on the rise. These anonymous marketplaces allow users to purchase drugs with cryptocurrency and have them discreetly shipped by mail, posing significant challenges to law enforcement. The piece highlights the growing appeal of these platforms and the dangers they present.
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The Rise of Online Sexual Exploitation
Southern Alberta Internet and Child Exploitation (ICE) Unit has seen a dramatic surge in online child sexual exploitation cases - from fewer than 400 annually a decade ago to an 1,500 in 2022. There is also a growing crisis of sextortion, particularly targeting teen boys, where victims are blackmailed for money or explicit content after being deceived online. Law enforcement faces major challenges due to the global nature of the crimes, but innovations like mobile forensic labs are helping to advance investigation.
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The Harm of Artificial Intelligence
Artificial intelligence (AI) is rapidly transforming the digital world, but it also poses serious risks - especially for youth. AI-powered tools, like chatbots and deepfakes, are increasingly being used in harmful ways - manipulating vulnerable teens, spreading inappropriate content, and fueling sextortion. These technologies pose serious risks to youth, including exposure to harmful behaviors, mental health impacts, and exploitation. Experts are calling for stronger safeguards, responsible tech development and open conversations to protect youth online.
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Contact
Lethbridge Police Service
135 1 Avenue South
Lethbridge, Alberta T1J 0A1
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