Know the signs.
Know where to go.
Education is often the first useful intervention. If someone is in immediate danger, contact local emergency services rather than waiting for an online investigation.
Grooming
Warning signs can include rapid escalation of trust, requests to move conversations to private platforms, secrecy, gifts or favors, sexualized conversation, or pressure to keep a relationship hidden.
Sextortion
Sextortion is blackmail involving intimate images or claims about intimate images. Do not pay or send more material. Preserve relevant messages and report the account or incident through the appropriate platform and authorities.
If a young person is involved
Stay calm, avoid blaming them, and focus on immediate safety. Do not ask them to forward illegal material to you. Preserve non-illegal identifying information such as usernames, dates, links, and messages where appropriate.
Urgent danger
If someone is at immediate risk of physical harm, contact local emergency services. Online research should never delay emergency help.