Online Grooming (Breck Foundation)

In February 2014, 14-year-old Breck Bednar from Surrey was groomed online by an 18-year-old male he met through gaming. Over several months, the older individual manipulated Breck into trusting him and distancing himself from his family. Breck was lured to a flat under false pretences and was fatally stabbed. The offender later pleaded guilty and received a life sentence with a minimum term of 25 years.

Following Breck’s death, his mother set up the Breck Foundation in his memory to raise awareness of online grooming, exploitation and digital risk, and to educate children, families and professionals so that other young people are better protected when using online spaces.

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In brief

• On the heels of Netflix's Adolescence release, experts like Dr Robert Lawson warn parents about emojis' hidden meanings linked to drugs and incel behaviour.
• Parents should be aware of emojis like the red pill, which signals incel beliefs, and others that may indicate drug use, as per Surrey Police.
• Discover the hidden meanings behind emojis and how they might impact your child's safety online by reading the full article here

Sir Gareth Southgate says he fears young men are spending too much time gaming, gambling and watching pornography - and they need better role models beyond online influencers.

Read the BBC story here