Let’s face it—there are a billion dangers lurking out there for kids (and adults) online. As they say, “Forewarned is forearmed!” Prepare your children by sharing the following red flags with them before letting them go online.
A Big List of Red Flags for Kids Online
Someone asks you to keep a conversation secret from parents or other adults.
They try to make you feel guilty or pressured for not responding quickly.
A person online says things like, “Don’t tell anyone about this” or “This is just between us.”
They ask for personal information—like your full name, address, phone number, or school name.
Someone asks for photos, especially ones you wouldn’t share with your family.
They try to move the conversation to a different app or platform, like from a game to a private chat.
Someone offers gifts, money, or rewards for doing something online (like sharing personal information or sending a picture).
They ask to meet in person, even if they seem friendly or say they are your age.
Someone tries to pressure you to do something you’re uncomfortable with or tells you “everyone is doing it.”
They quickly try to become best friends or say things like, “I feel like we’ve known each other forever.”
They ask for favors, like keeping them company when they’re sad, or make you feel responsible for their emotions.
You see inappropriate messages or images that make you feel uneasy.
Someone shares violent, sexual, or disturbing content without you asking for it.
You notice they’re talking about things that seem too mature or inappropriate for your age.
A person asks too many personal questions too soon.
They get angry or upset if you don’t reply quickly or if you don’t do what they ask.
They make negative or rude comments about your family, friends, or other people in your life.
Someone sends you links or files you didn’t ask for, especially if they tell you to click it right away.
They act very differently from how they introduced themselves—friendly at first, then pushy or demanding.
Someone wants you to share your passwords or asks for access to your accounts.
They tell you not to use your parents' or family’s Wi-Fi or devices to chat with them.
They ask you to use “incognito mode” or tell you how to delete chat history.
They tell you that if you don’t do what they ask, they’ll stop being your friend.
Someone pressures you to send a picture or do something on camera, even if it feels strange.
They make you feel like you’re missing out if you don’t follow their instructions.
What to Do If You See a Red Flag
If you feel uncomfortable or worried, come talk to me right away—we’ll handle it together.
Remember, you won’t get in trouble for telling me about something that feels wrong or unsafe.
It’s always okay to block or ignore someone if they make you feel uncomfortable.
If something doesn’t feel right, listen to that feeling—it’s your brain’s way of protecting you.
You don’t owe anyone online anything—not your time, not pictures, and definitely not personal information.