Crime Junkie
Crime Junkie
"The number one thing that's keeping perpetrator safe is victim blaming. And I know that's a really bold thing to say, but predators know that society victim blames." — Rue Powell
This episode of Crime Junkie features a crucial discussion with Rue Powell, founder of Sosa, an organization dedicated to combating online child sex abuse and exploitation. Powell explains the ubiquitously of online threats, highlighting how a fabricated online persona quickly attracted unwanted attention, underscoring the speed and stealth of online predation. She stresses that parents accustomed to traditional safety concerns, like curfews, must now contend with threats that can originate from anywhere globally via smartphones, a stark departure from localized dangers of the past.
The conversation delves into the specifics of "sextortion," a prevalent form of online abuse where individuals, often posing as peers, solicit explicit photos and then threaten to disseminate them to family, schools, or social circles unless payment is made. Powell clarifies that these perpetrators are rarely teenage girls but rather organized extortion rings, and that children of all genders are vulnerable. A key misconception addressed is the belief that only "bad kids" are targeted; Powell emphasizes that any child engaging online can become a victim, and that grooming can occur without overtly sexual language, making it difficult for children to recognize the danger.
A significant portion of the discussion focuses on empowering parents and children to navigate these risks. Powell advocates for open, ongoing communication, framing it as essential as the "sex talk" and encouraging parents to be a "soft place to land" for their children. She debunks the idea of completely isolating children from the internet, noting its integration into education and social life. Instead, she stresses teaching children to trust their instincts, making all online accounts private, and being judicious about who they connect with. The episode also highlights the vital role of non-judgmental adults, such as aunts, uncles, or teachers, in providing a safe space for children to disclose difficult experiences, reinforcing that abuse is never a child's fault.