In today’s digital-first world, many young people are unknowingly putting themselves at risk by sharing their real-time location online. What might feel like a harmless feature on apps like Instagram or Snapchat can actually open the door to serious threats such as coercive control, manipulation, or even sextortion.
According to Cybertip.ca, Canada’s national tipline for reporting the online sexual exploitation of children, location-sharing is becoming a growing concern. When teens broadcast where they are at any given moment, it can leave them vulnerable to exploitation from individuals they don’t know—or even think they can trust.
How Parents Can Step In
Open and honest conversations are the first step toward keeping your teen safe. Here are some practical tips you can use today:
Ask the right questions: Find out if your teen has enabled location sharing on their phone or apps.
Discuss the “why”: Talk about who they are sharing with and why it matters.
Highlight the risks: Make sure they understand how this information could be misused.
Check privacy settings together: Review their apps and phone settings. Turn off unnecessary location sharing.
Encourage safer habits: Remind them to only share their location with trusted individuals, never with followers or acquaintances they don’t know personally.
Cybertip.ca has created helpful tools and resources to guide parents through these conversations.
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Take Action as a Community
We all play a role in keeping our communities safe. If you notice something suspicious online—or offline—don’t ignore it.
For emergencies or crimes in progress, call 9-1-1.
For non-emergencies, contact the Winnipeg Police Service at 204-986-6222.
You can also report a crime online.
More Ways to Stay Informed
View neighbourhood reports for updates on break and enters and stolen vehicles.
Explore CrimeMaps to track local crime statistics.
Through initiatives like E-Watch, the Winnipeg Police Service continues to share valuable information on safety and crime prevention.
Final Thoughts
Digital safety is just as important as physical safety. By taking time to understand how location-sharing works and having those crucial talks with your teen, you can help them navigate online spaces more responsibly. At StratHR Solutions, we believe education and awareness are powerful tools in building safer communities for everyone.
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