BEDFORD — Parents and caregivers in Lawrence County will have an opportunity to learn about emerging online threats targeting children during an upcoming presentation hosted by Susie’s Place Child Advocacy Centers.
The program, titled “Online Predators: What Parents Need to Know,” is scheduled for Thursday, April 23, from 6 to 7 p.m. at Bedford Middle School. The event is free and open to all parents and caregivers.
The one-hour training will be led by John Graham, education and outreach program manager for Susie’s Place. Graham will discuss a range of current and evolving online risks, including commodified interactions targeting minors, artificial intelligence deepfake and image manipulation abuse, sextortion and financial exploitation, online sadistic exploitation networks, and safety concerns within apps and gaming platforms.
Drawing on data from the National Center for Missing & Exploited Children and other national partners, Graham will explain how these threats operate and what warning signs families should watch for. He will also outline practical, proactive steps parents can take to help protect their children online.
The presentation is designed to equip families with tools to start open and informed conversations with young people about internet safety.
The program is sponsored by Crane Credit Union.
Susie’s Place Child Advocacy Centers serve children and families impacted by abuse, offering advocacy, education, and prevention resources throughout the region.
