As Safer Internet Day is observed nationwide, the Arkansas State Police are urging families to make online safety a daily priority, citing sharp increases in reports of online exploitation involving children.
Preliminary 2025 data from the Arkansas State Police Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force shows 391 sextortion cases, an increase of 118% from 2024, along with 5,653 reports of online enticement before travel, up 490%. Authorities also reported 11 suicide threats tied to online activity, a 120% increase, and five child sex trafficking cases, up 150%.
State police say the rise in reports is linked in part to the federal REPORT Act, which expanded mandatory reporting requirements for electronic service providers and led to significantly higher CyberTip submissions nationwide. Online enticement cases often involve offenders grooming minors with the intent to meet in person, posing immediate risks, authorities said.
“The internet offers incredible tools for learning, friendship and discovery, but those same tools can be exploited by criminals who seek to harm children,” said Sgt. Corwin Battle, commander of the Arkansas ICAC Task Force. He encouraged parents and caregivers to talk openly with children about online risks and remain actively involved in their digital lives.
ASP officials stressed the importance of communication as social media, online gaming and virtual reality platforms continue to grow. “We want Arkansas families to feel empowered, not fearful,” said Major Stacie Rhoads, commander of the ASP Criminal Investigation Division.
State police recommend parents monitor apps and online activity, encourage open discussions about internet use, set accounts to private, disable location sharing and caution children against sharing personal information or interacting with strangers online.
Suspicious activity can be reported to local law enforcement, the Arkansas State Fusion Center at (501) 618-8001, or the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children at 1-800-THE-LOST. Reports may also be submitted through the CyberTipline at www.cybertipline.com.
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