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Psychological Genocide: Protecting Our Children From Traffickers and Digital Predators

Deena Graves

Our children are under attack—both physically and psychologically. The rise of child sex trafficking, online extortion, and the devastating use of social media have created an unprecedented crisis.

In this episode, I am joined by Deena Graves, a leading voice in the fight against human trafficking. Our conversation exposes the dark reality of how predators are targeting children and the systems that enable it.

We explored how traffickers and other predators use social media as a weapon, the alarming rise of sextortion, and what parents, educators, and businesses must  be aware of and do to protect the next generation

Here are some insights from the interview you need to know:

  1. Educate Yourself
  • Parents and caregivers must stay informed about online risks, emerging technologies, and how predators operate
  • Understand how children can hide their online activities and how social media platforms enable dangerous behaviors
  • Learn about specific warning signs relevant to your industry/role
  1. Have Proactive Conversations with Children
  • Create a safety contract together with children when giving them devices
  • Make children part of the conversation about online safety rather than just imposing rules
  • Have them sign agreements to create accountability
  • Address that they may need guidance with technology
  1. Monitor Online Activity
  • Don’t assume children won’t engage in risky behaviors online
  • Be aware that children can fake locations and hide activities
  • Stay vigilant about social media platforms, gaming systems, and other online spaces
  • Understand that any child with online access is vulnerable
  1. Engage with Schools
  • Have conversations with schools about their cybersecurity policies
  • Ensure proper safeguards are in place for school-provided devices
  • Discuss how the school addresses online safety
  • Partner with schools on education initiatives
  1. Take Preventative Action
  • Get proper training specific to your role/industry
  • Access resources like the book “Mind Games: Understanding Trafficker Psychological Warfare”
  • Report suspicious activities
  • Focus on prevention rather than just reaction to incidents
  • Consider how to turn emerging technologies into positive forces for protection

This conversation is a wake-up call for anyone concerned about the future of our children and the urgent need for systemic change.. Do take a listen!

You can listen to this Business Elevation Show interview with Dr Deena Graves & Chris Cooper here. Alternatively on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Tunein, Amazon Music, iHeart Radio (latter US only).


More about Dr Deena Graves:

Dr. Graves is an international award-winning communicator and strategist with 25+ years of experience transforming organisations through groundbreaking strategies, programs, tools, and results. She has an earned reputation for creative delivery that results in “aha moments” that convert theory into practice. She has a unique ability to inspire and infuse hope into complex situations and projects.

Deena has 16 years of direct experience working with highly traumatized children, including trafficked youth. Her company, M3 Transformations, prevents victims of trafficking and other atrocities through innovative, interactive programs for kids. And, they train and develop protocols for those who work with them.

Before that, she served on Texas Instruments DLP Products Senior Leadership TeamÒ, leading internal communications. She has consulted for multiple international, federal, state, and county corporations and agencies.

She has a background in journalism and is a futurist with an earned doctorate in Strategic Foresight, a cutting-edge skill set.