The legal definition of ‘digital grooming’ refers to the use of an electronic communication device to deliberately establish an emotional connection with a child to prepare them for sexual abuse. Abusers use manipulative behaviors to gain access to potential victims and their families to coerce them to agree to the abuse, which reduces their risk of getting caught.

Although there is no set playbook to grooming, the most common methods are:

• Targeting the victim

• Gaining the child and caregiver's trust

• Filling a need

• Isolating the child

• Sexualizing the relationship

• Maintaining control

What Smart Gen Society is Doing

Smart Gen Society is spearheaded an anti-digital grooming bill that was proposed in the 2023 Nebraska Legislative Session. This legislation aims to:

• Define digital grooming under Nebraska law

• Create statute criminalizing the use of digital grooming on minors under the age of consent and vulnerable adults

• Expand on current laws outlining the procurement and sharing of CSAM

What You Can Do

If you want to show support for this bill, there are a few things you can do.  

• Letters of Support: Smart Gen Society is collecting letters from our community to show local support on this issue. Email ADGB2022@gmail.com to receive a template or to submit completed letters of support.

• Petition: Please sign the petition HERE

* Support and learn more about Smart Gen Society and the bills HERE

* Sign letters of support

* Call your senator

* Share your story