Online grooming
One of the fastest-growing and least understood risks facing children today.
Many parents think of online danger as something that happens on “bad websites” or through obvious strangers. In reality, grooming often begins inside platforms children already use and enjoy: online games, chat features, social apps and group messaging spaces. These environments allow communication to start casually and escalate quietly.
Online grooming is a process. Offenders build trust, test boundaries, and gradually normalize secrecy or inappropriate behavior. This can happen over days, weeks or months, often without a child recognizing that something unsafe is happening.
What makes online grooming especially dangerous is that it:
- Often starts through games or apps that feel harmless
- Can involve private messaging, voice chat or group chats
- Allows offenders to hide behind usernames and avatars
- Frequently includes requests for secrecy, favors or “special” relationships
At PPE Kids, we focus on risk reduction, awareness and empowerment, not fear.
Parent quick guides to popular games
Free one-page guides to where conversations start, the settings that matter, and what to watch for.
- Roblox: A Parent Quick GuidePDF
- Minecraft: A Parent Quick GuidePDF
- Fortnite: A Parent Quick GuidePDF
- Discord: A Parent Quick GuidePDF
- Call of Duty: A Parent Quick GuidePDF
Watch our online grooming videos on YouTube
What parents and caregivers need to know
Online safety isn’t about being perfect or monitoring every click. It’s about:
- Understanding where conversations actually start
- Knowing which platforms carry higher risk
- Using available parental controls wisely
- Creating an environment where children feel safe telling you when something feels “off”
Children are far more likely to stay safe when adults are informed, present and willing to have ongoing conversations, not one-time warnings.
Our approach
The PPE Kids online grooming resources are designed to:
- Explain how online grooming works in clear, non-technical language
- Highlight common tactics used across popular games and platforms
- Help parents take practical, achievable steps to reduce risk
- Equip adults to talk with children without shame, fear or blame
These tools are not foolproof, but they are protective, proactive and effective when used consistently.
A final word
Online grooming thrives in silence and confusion. Prevention begins with clarity, conversation and care.
You don’t need to be a tech expert to protect your child. You just need the right information, and the courage to start the conversation.
If you believe a child is being exploited online, report it to the NCMEC CyberTipline or call 911.
💬 Parent comments & suggestions
Tell us what helped, what’s missing, or what you’d like to see. Your message goes straight to Sonni Wilson, our Executive Director, and the PPE Kids team.
Not for reporting abuse. If a child is in danger, call 911. To report abuse, call the Childhelp National Child Abuse Hotline at 1-800-422-4453. See Get Help.