(InvestigateTV) — The National Center for Education Statistics reported that 97% of U.S. children have access to the internet, making them susceptible to online predators.
To help address this threat, Meta recently announced they’re partnering with Childhelp, one of the country’s leading child safety non-profits, to develop a first-of-its kind education curriculum aimed at teaching middle school students how to stay safe online.
Jennifer Hanley, Meta’s Head of Safety Policy for North America, said the company is committed to supporting parents and has been intensifying efforts to protect young people.
Hanley said the animated curriculum teaches teens and pre-teens how to recognize grooming, sextortion scams, and other forms of online exploitation. It also offers guidance on what to do if they or someone they know needs help.
“It’s been really positive so far,” she said. “So, we only launched it recently, and we’re getting a lot of great feedback about the curriculum. We think it’s so important to get this out there to make people aware of the potential issues, to make sure teens and young people know what to do.”
InvestigateTV spent two years examining the growing threat of sextortion, a crime where scammers manipulate teens into sending nude photos, then blackmail them for money.
For many young victims, the intimidation and fear caused by these scammers has led to tragic outcomes, including teens taking their own lives.
“This is a horrific crime,” Hanley commented. “You know, I think our thoughts are always with families, and that’s part of why we want to make sure we’re empowering parents. We’re educating them. We’re making parents and teens aware that this is happening. I think the tools are very important to help prevent it.”
Those concerned about their child’s online safety can visit familycenter.meta.com.
This site has helpful tools, information about built-in protections, customizable safety features, and parental supervision guidance.
Copyright 2025 Gray Media Group, Inc. All rights reserved.