As students head back to classrooms, the Illinois Sheriffs’ Association is urging parents, teachers, and community members to stay vigilant about online safety.
The group is backing the U.S. Department of Homeland Security’s Know2Protect campaign, which promotes awareness and education on preventing child sexual exploitation and abuse.
Officials say more children are spending time online for learning and socializing, increasing risks from predators. Families and educators are encouraged to take the Pledge2Protect, request free safety presentations, and share awareness materials.
The association stresses open conversations with children about online behavior as key to building safer communities.