If it is happening now
What to do, and exactly who to call.
In order, starting with the two things most people get wrong: do not pay, and do not delete anything.
If a child is in immediate danger, call 911.
If you are a young person
- Stop communicating with the person, if it is safe to do so.
- Do not send money.
- Do not delete anything.
- Save evidence: photographs, messages, usernames, screenshots.
- Report the behaviour to the platform.
- Tell a trusted adult.
If somebody is exploiting you, it is not your fault.
If you are a parent or caregiver
- Stay calm.
- Avoid blaming or shaming your child.
- Save evidence. Do not delete messages or photographs.
- Remove the child's access to devices.
- Report the exploitation to the appropriate authorities.
- Focus on support and safety first.
- Seek professional help if it is needed.
Young people are more likely to seek help when they know they will be supported rather than punished.
The script
What to say when you call law enforcement.
Many families are not sure what to say, especially where social media, sextortion, grooming or online exploitation are involved. This asks the one question that routes the case correctly.
I need an officer to come to my home. I need to report an online exploitation of a child. Will this case be referred to the Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force? If not, can I please get the phone number for the South Dakota Division of Criminal Investigation?
- Stay calm and give as much information as you can
- Save screenshots, usernames, messages, images and platform details
- Do not delete evidence, even when it is upsetting to keep
- Ask for a case number and the investigating agency's contact details
One exception on evidence: do not create new copies of sexually explicit images involving a minor. Possessing, saving, forwarding or reproducing child sexual abuse material can create legal complications. Stop viewing the content and contact law enforcement or NCMEC for guidance.
The directory
Where to report.
report.cybertip.org
takeitdown.ncmec.org
stopncii.org
select “other” in the reporting menu
605-759-3565
Anonymous and local
Crime Stoppers lines across South Dakota.
If you would rather report locally, or anonymously, these lines take tips across the state.
You do not have to report to law enforcement to get help. Call to Freedom's advocacy, safety planning, emotional support and information about your options are available whether or not you want to make a report.
Advocacy, image removal, and support through an investigation.
You do not have to be certain to call.
Most of the referrals Call to Freedom receives come from somebody who was not sure. The line is free and confidential, and nobody will make you file a report.