Researchers and law enforcement officials nationwide have reported an increase in child pornography crimes in recent years. To help combat the alarming growth, the National Center for Missing & Exploited Children (NCMEC) launched the CyberTipline project. The CyberTipline fights Internet crimes against children by providing a method for reporting incidents of crimes against children 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

How does the CyberTipline work?

NCMEC created the CyberTipline, in cooperation with several branches of federal and state law enforcement agencies, to empower the public to take immediate and direct action to enforce a zero tolerance policy regarding child sexual exploitation. Additionally, the CyberTipline assists all levels of law enforcement by providing a clearinghouse of information regarding online predators that can be used to track, arrest and prosecute offenders.

How do I report an incident?

Any Internet-related crime against children, including child pornography, online enticement or obscene materials sent to a child or placed on a site where children could gain access, can and should be reported to the CyberTipline. To report an incident, you should call 1-800-843-5678 or visit www.CyberTipline.com. You will need to supply the approximate date and time of the incident and describe the type of incident. You may submit as many or as few details as you wish; however, any information you may have on where the incident occurred online, who the suspect may be and how the child or victim was contacted or exposed to obscene materials would also be helpful to the law enforcement authorities that work with CyberTipline.

After a report is submitted, it goes through a three-step process. First, CyberTipline operators work to prioritize each lead and review its severity. The report is then transferred to NCMECs Exploited Child Unit. It is during this step that the tip is analyzed and additional research is conducted, if necessary. Finally, the information is made available to the FBI, the U.S. Bureau of Immigration and Customs Enforcement, and the US Postal Inspection Service. This information may also be forwarded to local and state authorities and even the Internet service provider, or providers, involved.

How do I protect my child on the Internet?

The most important thing for parents to do is make sure that their children understand the importance of not giving out personal or private information on the Internet. A recent Pew Internet & American Life Project Poll reveals that 81% of teens believe it is okay to tell someone they just met online where they live and 71% say that it is okay to tell someone they just met online where they go to school. These statistics are alarming and are important for parents to educate their children that it is not safe to disclose such information.

CyberTipline also includes information and resources for parents, guardians and educators to assist in keeping children safer online. The site includes Internet safety tips, links to corporate partner programs and materials, and information on how corporations nationwide can help inform employees and their families about preventing child abduction and sexual exploitation.