Today, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) unveiled new resources aimed at educators, school administrators, and others working with children to better understand and prevent online child sexual exploitation and abuse (CSEA). The initiative is part of Know2Protect, DHS's national public awareness campaign. For the first time, Know2Protect offers classroom materials targeted specifically at educators to promote internet safety during the back-to-school season.
“The dangerous and too-often tragic reality is that predators target children online,” said Secretary of Homeland Security Alejandro N. Mayorkas. “Last year, there were more than 36 million reports of online child sexual exploitation worldwide. To combat this scourge, our Know2Protect campaign is equipping teachers, school administrators, and others – the trusted and well-positioned adults in whom children often confide – to help their students identify and prevent this crime. With a better understanding of online child sexual exploitation, tips for how to spot it when it occurs, and guidance on how to report incidents, we can protect our children online and save them from abuse and tragedy.”
Glen Pounder, Senior Vice President and Chief Safeguarding Officer at Scouting America stated: “The Know2Protect Back2School resources are easy to understand, and they will help ensure that our Scouting parents and youth are better prepared to stay safe online. We are proud of our partnership with DHS and honored to be on the front line helping to protect children and youth online.”
Derrick Driscoll, Chief Operating Officer of the National Center for Missing & Exploited Children remarked: “Empowering children with the knowledge to recognize and avoid the dangers of exploitation and abuse is critical in our mission to help make sure every child has a safe childhood. Educational tools and resources like DHS's Know2Protect Back2School campaign play a vital role in this effort. We are honored to partner with them as together we can make a real difference in protecting and educating our children.”
“Educators are often the first responders when it comes to dealing with the real-world impact of the horror of online child exploitation and abuse,” said American Federation of Teachers President Randi Weingarten. “They are dedicated to helping kids stay safe and supporting them socially and emotionally when they encounter criminal activity. This back-to-school season we are proud to be working with DHS to protect students and their families from this imminent threat.”
Elisa Villanueva Beard, Chief Executive Officer of Teach For America noted: “Research shows the connection between students’ feelings of safety and security with their ability to learn. DHS’s Know2Protect campaign raises awareness about online threats against children which helps us address these threats collectively."
Suzanne Walsh, President of Bennett College commented: “Keeping students safe online can sometimes feel overwhelming for educators and parents alike. Know2Protect's Back2School campaign consolidates all relevant resources into one location making them accessible for adults who aim to assist students."
According to statistics from the Department of Justice, one in five children receives an unwanted sexual solicitation online annually. Educating youths about these risks is key in preventing such crimes.
Know2Protect aims to support educators by connecting with teaching groups across the country sharing its Back2School resources which include educational videos like iGuardian Training Videos; printable posters; family safety agreements; internet safety checklists; classroom activities such as crosswords puzzles or coloring pages; among other resources.
Special agents from Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) or U.S Secret Service also offer free virtual or in-person training sessions for schools or after-school programs through www.know2protect.gov/training.
Know2Protect has educated over 82 thousand people via more than one thousand events since its inception aiming at surpassing 100 thousand individuals trained by end-of-year.
Starting August Project iGuardian teams up with National Association Police Athletic/Activities Leagues offering training sessions while Lamar Advertising displays public service announcements nationwide along NASCAR disseminating educational content via digital platforms ensuring widespread reach amongst stakeholders safeguarding children's welfare within various sectors.
Know2Protect stands as a pioneering federal government endeavor focusing explicitly upon educating communities regarding CSEA thus reinforcing protective measures preemptively addressing cyber threats ensuring robust safeguarding mechanisms benefitting younger demographics significantly.
Early intervention remains crucial urging empathetic conversations followed by immediate reporting via Tipline 833-591-KNOW(5669) or NCMEC CyberTipline ensuring prompt action facilitating preventive strategies combating potential exploitative scenarios effectively safeguarding minors comprehensively.
