Stranger Danger: Be Aware of Common Tactics Used by Child Predators

The National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC) – a leading fighter against child abuse, abduction, and exploitation – is a trusted source of information. They report that there were more than 10,000 possible sex trafficking incidents in 2017.

Be aware of these ‘tricks’ by those who would attempt to prey on your child. These are common tactics used by predators, and it’s important to teach your child how to respond.

• The Offer Trick –

The child is offered something like a toy, candy, money, or a ride home.   Teach your child about this when they receive a gift from a relative or friend.

• The Animal Trick –

A cute animal is used as a ploy to get the child into a car or a strange home.  Teach your child not to go into an unfamiliar house or home without your permission.

• The Emergency Trick –

A stranger, claiming an emergency, offers to take your child there.  Teach your child not to go anywhere with a strange person without your permission.

• The Help Trick –

A stranger asks your child to help with directions or to find a lost pet.  Teach your child not to do anything with a strange person without your permission.

• The Friend Trick –

A strange person says he was told to pick up the child at an event.  Make arrangements for proper pickup of your child at a party or other venue.

• The ‘Bad’ Child Trick

A stranger accuses the child of doing something wrong and that (s)he must go somewhere with him.  Ensure that your child is well-trained not to go anywhere with a stranger.

• The ‘Open-The-Door’ Trick –

A stranger tries to get a young child to let him in the house when the child is home alone.  Train the child not to let a stranger into the house if (s)he is alone at home.

• The Flattery/Model Trick –

A stranger complements the child and asks where they live or offers to take a picture.  Teach your child never to give personal information to a stranger.

Keep Your Child Safe!  Help your child know how to respond in these various situations. Remember, you’re not alone in this. NCMEC operates a 24-hour Hotline at 1-800-843-5678, ready to provide support and guidance whenever you need it.

Ferdinand D. Yates, Jr, MD, MA

Resource: National Center for Missing and Exploited Children