Urgent warning as children added to WhatsApp group with 'sexual images'

A WARNING has been issued after children in Malvern and Worcester were added to a WhatsApp group with “sexual images”.

In advice re-shared by Malvern’s Cube Youth group, parents have been warned that a group called ‘addwholeukabusenoadmin’ is adding children without their knowledge or consent.

This group is said to contain images and content that are “potentially illegal, highly inappropriate and of a graphic, sexual nature”.

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What to do if your child has been added to a group

Worcestershire County Council has confirmed it is aware of the group and has shared important advice with parents.

If a child discloses that they have been added to one of these groups, the council said adults should, in the first instance, reassure them that they have done the right thing.

They should then ask the child not to view, share or save any images or videos, and should delete any that are on their camera roll, as well as permanently deleting them from a deleted folder.

The authority has urged parents to make sure they report the WhatsApp group straightaway and make sure their child leaves the group.

“We have received information about a potential safeguarding concern involving young people being added to inappropriate WhatsApp groups,” a spokesperson for Worcestershire County Council said.

“It is important that parents and carers have the information they need to understand the risks and have open conversations with their children about staying safe online.

“The key message is to reassure young people that they have done the right thing by speaking to a trusted adult if they are concerned.

“Parents and carers should also ensure they know how to check and update their child’s privacy settings, and how to report inappropriate content through social media and messaging platforms.”

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