x
Breaking News
More () »

Online child exploitation on the rise during pandemic

Authorities say since the pandemic, people have been soliciting photos and videos of kids more often.

HUNTSVILLE, Ala. — Law enforcement officials say they're seeing a big increase in child exploitation online.

Because children are stuck at home during the pandemic, they're on their phones and computers more. Predators are taking advantage of that.

Authorities say since the pandemic, people have been soliciting photos and videos of kids more often.

U.S. Attorney for the Northern District of Alabama, Jay Town, says parents should monitor what they're kids are doing online.

"We're seeing more postings on the dark web, and those are either impulses the worst among us have started to increase because our children are on devices more than ever before," said Town.

Officials recommend talking with your kids about cyber safety and the risks of being online.

WATCH: Don't fall for coronavirus scams

RELATED: Scammers and stimulus checks: How to protect yourself

RELATED: How to report COVID-19 scams

Before You Leave, Check This Out