Pressure can come from others online.

Young people with SEND might be more trusting and believe the things someone tells or asks them to do online, especially if they have become close to their online friend. They might find it difficult to say no or recognise a potentially damaging or harmful situation. Sometimes, people lie or hide their online identity and intentionally contact someone vulnerable to try to take advantage of them. This could be pressure to send something, like a personal picture or they might ask to meet up in person. Online grooming can be difficult to spot but a change in behaviour, such as a change in their emotional pattern or becoming secretive with their online activity, could all be indicators that something is wrong. Our hot topic on online grooming gives more information and provides useful advice on how to prevent it.