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Back-to-school digital dangers, what parents can do to protect kids online

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. — With kids heading back-to-school parents should be aware of the digital dangers kids face online.

Florida Attorney General Ashley Moody released tools to help parents protect children online as another academic year begins.

On Monday, Moody released “Back to School: Digital Dangers,” a free resource focusing on dangers students may face while traveling to and from school, as well as threats on social media.

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According to a news release, the resource is designed to “help parents start a conversation with students about the dangers of texting while driving, online predators and illicit drugs commonly laced with deadly fentanyl.”

“New challenges have emerged in the tech age-including digital drug dealers selling deadly fentanyl over social media, human traffickers who attempt to lure children online, and even texting while driving jeopardizing road safety,” Moody said. “As schools start, I am releasing “Back to School: Digital Dangers” to warn parents about these threats and encourage them to talk to their children about how to stay safe.”

Read: Florida Attorney General Moody announces formation of nationwide anti-robocall task force

The program is free to download and contains important public safety information, such as:

  • Drugs are much more dangerous due to fentanyl being prevalent in the illicit supply. Just one counterfeit pill laced with the substance is enough to kill.
  • Criminals lurk on social media to prey on unsuspecting children.
  • Never use mobile devices while operating a vehicle and other safe driving habits.
  • Additional resources and tips for parents to help further educate their children about online safety.

Read: Florida Attorney General Moody highlights seven summer scams to avoid

To check out “Back to School: Digital Dangers,” click here.

The quick-reference brochure also provides information on other resources about the dangers of fentanyl, synthetic opioids and the most dangerous time on the road for young drivers.

Read: Wire-fraud victims could be eligible to receive reimbursement, Moody says

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