Did You Know This is Happening on Venmo?

Published on January 16, 2026
Duration: 13:50

This video from the Shawn Ryan Show, featuring insights from Elizabeth, a former board chair of an anti-trafficking organization, discusses the alarming ways predators exploit online platforms like Venmo, Roblox, Minecraft, Instagram, and TikTok to target and groom children. It highlights scams like the 'sugar daddy' model leading to sextortion and the presence of inappropriate content on YouTube. The episode emphasizes proactive parental safeguards, such as delaying smartphone access and utilizing resources like Thorn and the Carly Ryan Foundation for digital safety guidance.

Quick Summary

Predators exploit financial apps like Venmo by tracking public transactions to identify young targets, often using gaming platforms and social media for grooming. Scams like the 'sugar daddy' model can lead to sextortion. Resources like Thorn for Parents and the Carly Ryan Foundation offer guidance for digital safety.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Predators on Venmo
  2. 01:47Gaming Platforms and Grooming
  3. 02:24Parental Safeguards
  4. 03:47The 'Sugar Daddy' Scam
  5. 07:38YouTube and Inappropriate Content
  6. 11:14Resources for Digital Safety

Frequently Asked Questions

How do predators use Venmo to target children?

Predators monitor public transaction patterns on Venmo, looking for spending at places like Sephora or movie theaters to identify potential young targets. They may then approach these individuals with offers, sometimes leading to exploitation.

What are common platforms used for online child grooming?

Predators frequently use popular gaming platforms like Roblox and Minecraft, as well as social media apps such as Instagram, TikTok, and Snapchat, to groom and exploit children. They build trust before escalating their harmful intentions.

What is the 'sugar daddy' scam discussed in the video?

This scam involves predators on platforms like Venmo offering money to young girls, often for 'modeling' headshots. This initial offer quickly escalates into demands for explicit content, leading to sextortion.

What resources are recommended for parents concerned about digital safety?

The video recommends resources like 'Thorn for Parents' and the 'Carly Ryan Foundation.' These organizations provide tools, templates for device contracts, and guidance on setting up app safety features to protect children online.

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