Talbot Co. Sheriff reports increase in child exploitation cases, tips to stay safe

EASTON, Md. – The Talbot County Sheriff’s office says it’s seen an increase in the number of child exploitation cases in the last few weeks.

Officials tell 47 ABC they believe this is tied to schools being closed. They say predators think this presents an opportunity to try and take advantage of children who are spending a lot of time online. Police say predators try to build a trusting relationship with kids on apps like TikTok, Snapchat, Instagram and others. The best thing you can do is educate yourself and talk to your kids.

“A lot of these apps they are downloading, they are not making security precautions in reference to their privacy settings and they are public and a lot of offenders are using that to their advantage to victimize these young children,” says Sgt. Marlene Gieraltowski with the Talbot County Sheriff’s Office.

If you think you child has fallen victim to child exploitation, you are urged to contact your local police department so they can investigate.

For information on how to talk to your kids and protect them online: click here.