The Ministry of Interior (MOI) in Qatar has urged parents to stay involved in their children’s online activities to help protect them from digital risks, harmful behaviours, online grooming and extortion attempts.

The Ministry emphasised the importance of maintaining open communication with children and monitoring their online activities to help them recognise potential threats and respond safely to suspicious interactions.

Parents are encouraged to teach children not to share personal information or photos online, avoid clicking on suspicious links and refuse requests that appear suspicious. These precautions can help children become more aware of potential online dangers and protect their privacy.

The Ministry has also outlined steps children should take if they encounter online extortion or a suspected scam. They should inform their parents immediately, stop communicating with the person involved and refuse to comply with threats or demands for money. Any available evidence should be preserved to support reporting the incident to the relevant authorities.

Parents and children can contact the Ministry of Interior through the following channels to report online extortion attempts or seek assistance:
Hotline: 66815757
Direct line: 2347333
Email: cccc@moi.gov.qa

The Ministry’s advisory highlights the importance of parental awareness, guidance and early communication in helping children navigate the internet more safely.

Source: Ministry of Interior & Ministry of Social Development and Family