Do this immediately
First hour, right steps
If your child is caught in this, they need support, not blame. Work these four steps in order — then reach the right people below.
- Stop all contactDo not pay, do not send more images. Paying almost never makes it stop.
- Don't delete anythingScreenshots, usernames, and messages are evidence. Save them first.
- Report itFile with NCMEC and the platform. For explicit images of a minor, use Take It Down.
- Tell a trusted adultAnd reassure the child, out loud: they are not in trouble.
Free & confidential — call from any phone, any state
Reach the right people
You won't get in trouble for calling. They're here to help you figure out what to do.
Do this today · ~30 minutes
Lock down the devices
Harden the phones, consoles, and apps kids actually use. No tech degree required — check each off as you go.
📱 Phones & tablets
💬 Social & chat accounts
🎮 Game consoles & PC games
🤝 The family agreement
Platform steps change often. For click-by-click, current instructions, see the full Lock Down the Devices guide at dadsprotect.org.
A gut-check, not a diagnosis
If you notice these, pay attention
Check anything you've seen lately. This isn't proof of anything — it's a prompt to lean in, stay calm, and open the door.
Keeping the relationship open is the best protection there is.
Seeing several of these doesn't mean the worst has happened — but it's worth a calm, no-blame conversation today. If money or explicit images are already involved, go to If It's Happening Now.
The conversation that stops it early
Have the talk
You don't need perfect words. You need an open door. Sextortion thrives on a child's fear of being blamed — so take that fear off the table first.
"If anything like this ever happens, you will not be in trouble. Come to me. We'll handle it together."