GroomingIs “Groomer radar” something to worry about? More Grooming terms
Groomer radar
Risk flagAwareness or suspicion that someone online may be attempting grooming—recognizing predatory behavior patterns. Teens may use this ironically or to genuinely warn friends about someone who shows red flags.
How kids use it
Teens warning each other: 'That guy's giving groomer radar energy'
Yes — take "Groomer radar" seriously. Terms in this category show up in contact between kids and people trying to exploit them. Seeing it in your kid's messages doesn't prove the worst, but it warrants a calm look at who they're talking to.
- Don’t confront in anger — ask who they’re talking to online, and look together.
- If an unknown adult is involved: screenshot everything, block, and report it to the platform — and to the NCMEC CyberTipline (CyberTipline.org) if anything sexual was requested or sent.
- Run a 30-second check on the apps involved Is it safe? checker →