Learn about online groups that pose a threat to children at CHENTAC’s upcoming presentation “Protecting Kids in the Digital Age” presented on Oct 6 and 15 at 6:30 p.m. An FBI approved presentation to be led by experts. Free to attend, for adults audience only, register attendance to info@chenangony.org (file photo)

CHENANGO COUNTY — The Chenango County Threat Advisory Committee (CHENTAC), in partnership with the Sheriff's Office, is hosting two presentations aimed at educating caregivers about online threat networks targeting minors.

The seminar, “Protecting Kids in the Digital Age,” will be held on Oct. 6 at 6:30 p.m. in the Norwich High School Auditorium and on Oct. 15 at 6:30 p.m. in the Bainbridge-Guilford High School Auditorium. The presentations are free to attend and restricted to adults only due to the seriousness of the material. Contact info@chenangony.org or 607-334-1400 to register to attend.

The sessions will focus on how decentralized online networks, gaming platforms and social media are being used to manipulate, coerce and exploit youth. CHENTAC Coordinator Wesley Mills said after a briefing by the New York State Intelligence Center on one of the networks, they knew they had to bring awareness to caregivers in the community. This particular online network had been linked to real-world acts of violence and coercion. Some experts refer to these actions as nihilistic violent extremism, which is characterized in part by earning online status or “clout-chasing” through causing harm.

“It was startling,” Mills said. “I couldn't believe that there is such a group out there.”