Justice Secretary Fredderick Vida urged parents to pay closer attention to their children’s online activity amid concerns that extremist recruiters may be trying to reach minors through gaming communities and group chats.
Vida said young people who spend long hours on violent online games could be vulnerable to individuals who enter online spaces, build contact with minors and gradually influence them toward extremist ideas.
“Let’s keep an eye on what our kids are doing. Let’s engage. Let’s talk to them,” Vida said.
He stressed that parents are often in the best position to notice changes in a child’s behavior, habits and online interactions, making regular communication an important safeguard.
The Justice chief also warned that the risk does not stop with gaming platforms. He said chat groups and other digital spaces could be used to identify and cultivate young targets.
Vida likewise called on social media users to avoid reposting graphic footage of violent incidents, saying the spread of such material could amplify fear and potentially contribute to copycat behavior.
“The real power here is the power of restraint,” he said, urging both the public and media organizations to think carefully before sharing disturbing content.
The DOJ is still studying what legal consequences may apply to users who circulate violent material online, but Vida said responsible digital behavior and closer parental supervision remain immediate steps that families can take.