GLADSTONE, Mich. (WLUC) – The Michigan State Police Cyber Crimes Unit is conducting cybersecurity demonstrations at schools across the UP, and last week the unit visited Gladstone High School to speak with students in grades 6-12.
A Gladstone high school student says learning how to talk to the adults in her life about internet safety is crucial.
“Obviously, sextortion and online safety are important to everyone, especially when we’re talking about young people,” senior Reese Herioux said. “It’s important to have that conversation.”
Presentations from the cybercrime unit included topics such as cyberbullying and sextortion. Sextortion is when people are blackmailed with nude photos of themselves.
MSP detection. Officer Collin Hinman addressed the students. He said he hopes to spread awareness so students feel comfortable coming forward if they encounter “compromising” situations.
“The last thing we want is for someone to become vulnerable to the point where they harm themselves,” Hinman said. “Or they were exposed or taken advantage of online and felt like they didn’t have the opportunity to talk to someone.”
Students said it was difficult to tell adults something that might embarrass them or get them into trouble.
“I think it’s really important to tell your parents just in case something like this happens,” said sophomore Addy Blowers. “But it’s also very scary to admit it.”
Hinman said there are some red flags to be wary of, including when someone asks for personal information early in a conversation, or when a stranger asks to move from a group chat to a private conversation. If this happens, students should immediately take down the user’s name, end the conversation and call police, he said.
“We’re going to have the resources to ultimately find out who they are,” Hinman said. “That way, you’re not making yourself vulnerable by staying in communication with them.”
MSP also provides internet safety presentations to parents and guardians.
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