If something just happened: parent emergency response

The principle: triage first

In an emergency, most parents skip the preservation step and jump to “fix it.” That usually destroys the evidence you’d need later. First screenshot, then respond.

Four scenario checklists

Sextortion / threats over intimate images

See our sextortion response guide.

Stranger contact

1. Screenshot profile, conversation, any photos sent.
2. Report the account on the platform.
3. If sexual or exploitative, CyberTipline.
4. Review how the stranger reached the kid — close that door.

Account hijack

1. Start account recovery on the platform, not password reset (if locked out).
2. Check email rules and connected apps — attackers plant persistence there.
3. Change password on any account that shared the password (usually several).
4. Enable 2SV.

Scam / money loss

1. Credit card: call issuer for chargeback.
2. Gift card: report to the issuer; sometimes recoverable.
3. Platform: report the scam account.
4. Report at reportfraud.ftc.gov.

When to go to local police

• Threats of violence.
• Sexual content involving a minor (they can coordinate with federal agencies).
• Stalking.
• Physical property theft (e.g., the phone).

What to tell your kid in the moment

“This is scary, and you did the right thing telling me. We’re going to fix this. You’re not in trouble. Let’s take screenshots first, then I’ll walk through what to do.”

Full step-by-step: emergency page.