Staff Report
KYLE — As children and teens continue to spend significant time online, the Kyle Police Department is raising awareness about cyberbullying and emerging digital threats, including artificial intelligence (AI) generated content and deepfakes.
Parents and guardians are encouraged to talk with children about the emotional, social and legal consequences of harmful online behavior, read a news release.
Understanding cyberbullying
Cyberbullying uses technology to harass, threaten, humiliate or target someone. It can occur through social media, messaging apps, gaming platforms, group chats or video sharing. Common forms include:
• Exclusion: Leaving someone out of online groups or chats intentionally
• Harassment: Repeated aggressive messages or threats
• Doxxing: Publicly posting personal information without consent and with intent to threaten harm
• Impersonation: Pretending to be someone else to spread rumors or damage reputations
• Outing: Sharing private messages, photos or secrets publicly.
• Trolling: Posting hurtful or provocative comments to elicit emotional responses
Red flags children may show:
• Sudden mood changes or withdrawal from friends and activities
• Hesitance or fear when using phones or computers
• Secretive behavior online
• Unexplained academic or behavioral changes
Understanding AI-generated threats
Artificial intelligence, including deepfakes, presents new risks for children. AI can convincingly mimic voices, faces or behaviors, making it easier for predators or scammers to manipulate young users. Common threats include:
• Voice impersonation scams: Criminals mimic a parent’s or friend’s voice to extract money or sensitive information
• Deepfake videos and photos: Altered media may be used to embarrass, deceive or lure children into unsafe situations
• Fake online friends or influencers: AI bots pose as peers to gain trust or direct children to dangerous sites or challenges
• Manipulated messages: Fake texts, emails or direct messages appearing to come from someone familiar
Red Flags for AI Threats:
• Messages or calls that seem inconsistent with a person’s usual behavior
• Requests to move conversations to another platform
• Slightly distorted or glitchy videos and images
• Requests for personal information, photos or money
• Messages playing on fear, guilt, secrecy or flattery
How Families Can Protect Children
1. Start conversations early and often
• Normalize discussions about cyberbullying, online scams and AI risks
• Make sure children know they can come to you without fear of punishment
2. Document and report
• Save screenshots, usernames, timestamps and messages
• Report violations to platform administrators
3. Adjust privacy and security settings
• Block harassers or suspicious accounts
• Use strong passwords, two-factor authentication and parental controls
4. Teach digital empathy and skepticism
• Discuss kindness, respectful communication and critical thinking about what children see and hear online
• Help them verify content with a trusted adult before responding
5. Know when to involve law enforcement
• If behavior involves threats, stalking, extortion, sexual content or impersonation, contact KPD or local law enforcement immediately
KPD encourages parents and guardians to view online safety as a shared responsibility and to equip children with the knowledge and tools to navigate the digital world safely.
According to KPD, www.MissingKids.org/NetSmartz is an online resource for families with practical tools, tip sheets and kid-friendly content about online safety, bullying and healthy digital habits.
To report cyberbullying that rises to the level of a threat or harassment, contact KPD’s non-emergency line at 512-268-3232. In an emergency, call 911.
