Office of the Illinois Attorney General Addresses Internet Crimes Against Children Through Digital Safety Presentations to Schools

Presentations to schools that are offered by the Illinois Attorney General’s Office cover various topics intended to educate youth on how to stay safe when using technology. Each presentation is tailored to the age group. Topics discussed are empathy and kindness when addressing others online, cyberbullying, being smart about privacy and social media posts, the impact of one’s digital footprint on future opportunities and more. The importance of identifying trusted adults is emphasized, in the event a child needs to talk to a trusted person about something they witnessed or experienced online. Sexting, online enticement, sextortion, and other risks (as well as resources for reporting) are addressed in age-appropriate language. Presentations are interactive and also include short video clips provided by the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children, Netsmartz or Common Sense Media. The presentations conclude with a review of important online safety rules, along with encouragement to act responsibly, support others, and take a leadership role by setting a good example and sharing safety knowledge.

Presentations are also available for parent and community events or staff in-services. These presentations keep adults updated on technology trends among the youth as well as current risks and reporting resources.

For access to the attorney general website where further information is available as to how to recognize, understand, respond to, and cope with cyberbullying and internet safety issues that are geared for kids, teens, parents, and teachers, click on www.ebully411.com. There you will also find out how to access the E-Info Hotline as well as a speaker request form with instructions for completing and submitting the form if a school or other venue desires to have a speaker give a presentation on e-bullying and internet safety.

Karilyn M. Orr|High Tech Crimes Bureau
Internet Safety Specialist-Internet Crimes Against Children
Office of the Illinois Attorney General
69 W. Washington, Chicago IL 60602
Office Phone: (312) 793-4230
korr@atg.state.il.us