This website, created by Cybertip.ca, addresses the sextortion of boys with a humorous twist, using the character of a naked mole-rat. The platform is comprehensive and concise, making it a good tool for educating oneself about online violence, while also offering a concrete course of action against the phenomenon.
Among the contents featured on the site, there is a video explaining the nature of sextortion, a deconstruction of five myths, as well as GIFS and memes that can be used to tackle the issue. This resource can be useful to raise awareness among young men that they too can be victims of sextortion. You can use the video in the classroom or at a kiosk, for example. The goal is to equip youth with the tools they need to deal with sextortion and online violence of all kinds.
Beware of Nuances
The lesson plan on sextortion provided at the bottom of this page could be an interesting tool for your interventions. Its content is very relevant, although there are a number of nuances that we feel are important to clarify. Take note, for example, that the notion of “error” mentioned twice in this tool seems somewhat improper to us. It implies that a person, whether young or old, can feel like they have made a mistake by sending intimate content about themselves to someone else. However, they are never responsible for the sextortion they experience or for other people sharing their content without their consent.
Instead, we suggest emphasizing the importance of asking for help, regardless of the emotions one feels as a result of a sextortion situation or other type of online violence (e.g., shame, anger, guilt, etc.). Clearly explain to young people that seeking help from trusted adults and specialized resources is recommended.
Cybertip.ca
Cybertip.ca is a branch of the Canadian Centre for Child Protection that functions as Canada’s tipline for reporting the online sexual abuse and exploitation of children. In addition to Cybertip.ca, the Center also created NeedHelpNow.ca. These two platforms seek to raise awareness around Internet safety, and to equip young people and the adults in their lives with the tools they need to stay safe on the Internet.
