Police Scotland has launched an investigation after a child in Wishaw was allegedly groomed on a social media and gaming app.
The force confirmed it is making enquiries into what it has described as a recent incident of ‘online child exploitation’ on an app known as Zepeto.
The app, which was created in Korea, enables users to create a 3D animated version of themselves which they can then use to chat to others across the globe.
Police have warned parents of the dangers that social media apps, such as Zepeto, can pose to children and reminded them to be in control of what apps and content is being viewed by youngsters.
Has your child been using Zepeto? Sound off in the comments section.
Michael Steenson, Police Constable of Preventions and Interventions at the force, said: “We are currently carrying out enquiries into an incident of online exploitation using an app known as Zepeto, which involved a child from the Wishaw area recently.
“Social media is now an important part of many people’s lives but we need to keep children safe when online.
“Prevention is key and I would like to remind parents to be in control of what apps and content your child is viewing.
“We remain committed to tackling child online exploitation and anyone with any concerns should contact Police Scotland on 101.”
A description of the Zepeto app reads: “In a space without limits, another me in another universe.
“Create who you want to be, and meet friends across the world. Go on exciting adventures and bring your ideas to life.
“Make friends, take photos and complete missions - choose from more than a thousand worlds to explore.”
A spokesperson for Zepeto creator Naver Z Corporation said: "As an industry leading metaverse company, we take online abuse very seriously and have a zero-tolerance policy against predatory behaviour. Our Trust and Safety team is working around the clock and around the globe to facilitate safe environment for users of all genders, age, ethnicity, religion and all backgrounds.
"We are heavily investing in resources and building sophisticated tools to better protect the integrity of our App. ZEPETO’s Trust and Safety team is dedicated to developing robust policy, implementing strategic features to enhance our user safety, remove potentially abusive contents and accounts, and foremost, working with our users to promote a safer metaverse. We are aware that this is an industry wide challenge and these protections may not catch all instances of abuses; however, we’re committed to continuously enhancing our existing strategy and introducing industry leading technology to keep our community safe."
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