Parents given tips on how to spot tell tale signs of 'grooming' behaviour

Parents of young children and teenagers are being urged to exercise caution and vigilance if their children are using social networking sites.

Parents of young children and teenagers are being urged to exercise caution and vigilance if their children are using social networking sites.

The warning comes in the week that a high profile child abuse case was concluded on the Isle of Man, with a 24-year-old local man being sentenced to 7 years in prison.

The rise in popularity of sites like facebook and myspace have given an outlet for potential child abusers to create a point of contact with the children using false identities, then beginning the procedure known as grooming.

This consists of the individual striking up generic conversation and gaining the childs trust, once that is established they will endeavour to arrange a meet up.

Detective Sergeant Andy Pailor from the Public Protection Unit has said despite cases of child abuse being uncommon on the Isle of Man it's important parents are well informed on how to spot the tell tale signs.

He said it's important to take note of any significant change of behaviour in your child, especially if this coincides with them constantly using their computers or texting.

If you have major concerns you're advised to contact the Public Protection Unit at Police Headquarters.

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