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This note comes from Mistlift, a plain-language guide for parents and educators to what kids are into online.

A note for families: Grooming on Snapchat and Instagram

Watch Ages 10-17 Last checked October 16, 2026

What it is

UK child-protection experts report that online grooming is getting quicker and easier on apps like Snapchat, Instagram and TikTok, which makes it worth knowing the pattern and keeping the conversation open at home.

How much it matters

Real but nuanced. Usually fine; it depends on the kid and how they use it.

Should you worry?

Grooming is when an adult builds a relationship with a young person to gain their trust and later exploit them. Reports describe it moving fast: friendly contact, lots of attention, requests to keep things secret, a push to switch to a private app, then pressure or threats. Warning signs include a new online friend your child is protective about, secrecy around their phone, sudden mood changes, and gifts or credit they can't explain. Stay calm, keep their devices and privacy settings something you look at together, and make it clear that they will never be punished for telling you something happened. If something has already happened, save the messages, don't delete anything, and report it.

What to say

“I've been reading that some adults try to befriend kids online and then ask them to keep secrets. If anyone ever makes you feel uncomfortable or tells you not to tell me, I want to know, and you won't be in trouble. Nothing you tell me would change how I feel about you.”

If you’re worried

If your child is in immediate danger, call 911. To report online sexual exploitation or luring, contact Cybertip.ca. If intimate images have been shared, NeedHelpNow.ca can help get them removed. Kids Help Phone (1-800-668-6868, or text 686868) is there for your child any time. If your child talks about hurting themselves, call or text 988.

Sources

Read the full card, and share it, at mistlift.app/cards/snapchat-instagram-grooming