Manila: The Cybercrime Investigation and Coordinating Center (CICC) is urging parents to take an active role in monitoring their children's online activities, warning that gadgets and phones should never serve as substitutes for parental supervision.

According to Philippines News Agency, CICC Undersecretary Renato Paraiso, in a Bagong Pilipinas Ngayon interview over PTV, emphasized the importance of parents watching for behavioral changes in their children as possible signs of online grooming or predatory contact. Paraiso noted that reclusive behavior or children frequently engaging in conversations online could indicate potential dangers. He highlighted the need for parents to investigate who their children are communicating with, especially if there's a sudden improvement in their English due to interactions with foreigners.

Paraiso pointed out that predators have become more sophisticated, often posing as children themselves to target victims. He also mentioned that time differences play a role, with children staying up late to communicate with foreign contacts. He advised parents to create an environment of openness with their children rather than resorting to immediate confrontation.

He further instructed parents to preserve any suspicious conversations as evidence to aid authorities in identifying and pursuing criminal networks operating through messaging platforms. Paraiso assured parents of their confidentiality and privacy when reporting cases to the CICC hotline 1326 or visiting the CICC office in Quezon City.

In addition, Paraiso mentioned the CICC's partnership with the Council for the Welfare of Children, which offers intervention services and guidance for parents on approaching online safety concerns with their children.