This is the 21st episode of Keeping Kids Safe - A Bright Futures podcast by the Daniel Morcombe Foundation, featuring Bruce and Denise Morcombe.
 
In this episode we’re going to find out how a former counterintelligence special agent for the US Army and the FBI is now using his diverse investigative skills to crack down on cyber crime - including the criminals targeting children online. Dr Dennis Desmond specialises in international and state sponsored cyber threats - and his research is finding that the processes used by criminals to launder cryptocurrencies on the dark net are now being used increasingly for online child abuse. He tells us how platforms such as Reddit and Twitch are being used to groom and recruit  young people into criminal underworlds and even terrorist groups, and what parents should do about this dangerous trend. That includes the danger signs parents should look out for and what strategies they can use to counter this, particularly - as he describes it - how parents should actively become their child’s first line of defence.

It’s time for difficult conversations to shine light on this hidden topic. This podcast talks openly about child abuse, child sexual abuse, child sexual exploitation and harmful sexual behaviours. 
 
Each episode of this series will feature practical insights on how to teach your child safety in the world today. 
 
REMINDER: As Denise says in the podcast - Take care when listening. Please contact Lifeline if you need support after listening to this, on 13 1114 or you can call 1800 Respect.
 
GET IN TOUCH
 
This podcast is produced by Nance Haxton with production assistance from Michael Adams. To get in touch with the Daniel Morcombe Foundation about any of the information shared in this podcast, go to https://danielmorcombe.com.au/bright-futures/ or phone 1300 326 435

CREDITS
 
Host: Nance Haxton 
 
With thanks to Dr Dennis Desmond

 
ADDITIONAL RESOURCES:

The Daniel Morcombe Foundation - 1300 326 435 or https://danielmorcombe.com.au/bright-futures/

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.