By Lt. Joe Laramie, ret.; Founder, Online Child Exploitation Prevention Initiative
This article reflects the viewpoints and experiences of the contributing individual(s) and/or organizations.
Content Warning(s): online sexual exploitation and abuse of children
In an age where the internet has become an integral part of daily life, educating youth of all ages about online safety is now more critical than ever. The digital landscape offers a wealth of information and opportunities but also presents numerous risks. Because of the ever-increasing use and dependence on the online world, proper prevention practices in teaching online safety are essential in helping individuals navigate this complex environment securely. The Online Child Exploitation Prevention Initiative (OCEPI) is proud to announce the release of the Ten Best Practices for Prevention Programs.
Established in 2023, OCEPI consists of individuals and agencies specializing in efforts to prevent children from becoming victims of online sexual exploitation and abuse. Initiative members are experts including federal, state, and local law enforcement, Internet Crimes Against Children (ICAC) Task Force members, researchers, educators, prevention specialists, training partners, and child protection organizations. It is by far the most comprehensive and collaborative online safety group in the United States. For a list of members and more information about OCEPI, please visit: icactaskforce.org/ocepi
For a downloadable version of the Ten Best Practices for Prevention Programs, including a comprehensive description of each practice, see icactaskforce.org/ocepi. You may also find a supporting video from ICAC Commanders at icactaskforce.org/internetsafety.
The 10 Best Practices are as follows:
- Follow a victim-centered approach.
- Assess the effectiveness of prevention programs and adjust when needed.
- Minimize or eliminate fear-based messages.
- Reflect online risks accurately.
- Stay focused on behavioral goals.
- Encourage a multi-pronged approach to prevention.
- Work and plan collaboratively with the host school or agency to provide internet safety training for staff.
- Include skill building information about responding to harmful online behavior.
- Provide internet safety education to parents.
- Offer additional resources.
The rapid advancement of technology continually introduces new tools and platforms, and these advancements also bring new risks and challenges. Proper prevention practices in online safety education must adjust to these emerging issues to remain effective and these 10 Best Practices for Prevention Programs are easily adaptable to these ever-changing technologies.
Building strong partnerships and maintaining consistent messages are vital components of these prevention practices. Collaboration with schools, parents, and community organizations ensures that safety messages are reinforced across all areas of a child’s life. By working together and delivering consistent, accurate messages, we can collectively raise awareness about online risks and foster a culture of responsible digital citizenship.
Now is the time to act. We all seek to promote a safe online environment for youth, and that begins with proper prevention practices. By addressing the various risks associated with internet use and equipping students with the knowledge and skills to navigate these challenges, prevention educators can create a safer and more secure online environment. From protecting personal information to fostering responsible digital citizenship, these practices play a crucial role in ensuring that individuals can enjoy the benefits of the Internet while minimizing its risks.
Please share these 10 Best Practices for Prevention Programs with those teaching our youth and educating our communities about online safety.
