A Dunedin man has been arrested after police received reports of someone posing as a young person online in an attempt to deceive other young people into sending them sexualised content.
The 22-year-old’s arrest prompted a warning to parents to stay vigilant of similar behaviour.
Detective Sergeant Reece Munro said: “Initial inquiries suggest that there are a number of victims in New Zealand, and potentially other jurisdictions as well.”
Support is being provided to those who reported the behaviour to the police.
“It is important Kiwi parents know that unfortunately this offending does happen in New Zealand, and that they need to take steps to keep their kids safe online,” Munro said.
He recommended that parents have conversations with their kids about staying safe while online.
“The advice to young people and parents is to remain vigilant online and be 100% sure of who you are communicating with and befriending online,” Munro said.
He urged any parent who suspects their child is being contacted or messaged by an adult posing as a child to get in touch with Netsafe or police via 105.
For children, Munro said they should ask an adult for help.
“This may be a parent or caregiver, a friend, Police, Teacher or School Guidance Counsellor.”
Families can also find resources at Keep it Real Online.