Social media warning after online child exploitation charge

A 20-year-old Pilbara man has been accused of using electronic communication to procure a child under 16 years to engaging in sexual activity and distribute child exploitation material.

The charges have prompted police to encourage parents and children to be aware of risks posed by social media, following the arrest of the man in April this year.

It will be alleged between 2013 and 2016 the man used various profiles, including one pitched as that of a young girl, on various social media sites to procure sexually explicit images from boys under 18 years of age.

The man has been remanded in custody and is next due to appear in the Karratha Magistrates Court on August 16.

The investigation by detectives is ongoing.

The national ThinkUKnow cyber safety education program is focused on preventing children from being groomed or mistreated online. For more information and to book a free cyber safety presentation, visit www.thinkuknow.org.au.

Members of the public who have any information about people involved in child exploitation are urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or online at www.crimestopperswa.com.au.