Particle.news
Download on the App Store

Mexico City Cyber Police Warn of Emoji-Coded Grooming Targeting Minors

The advisory emphasizes parental vigilance alongside clear reporting routes.

Overview

  • The SSC CDMX Cyber Police flagged a tactic dubbed “Juegos y Emojis con Trampa” used in video games, social networks and messaging apps to approach children and teens.
  • Examples cited include peach, eggplant, flame and tongue emojis to replace explicit terms, with other icons probing whether a child is alone, has a camera or can send photos.
  • Authorities describe a pattern in which offenders start with friendly chats, normalize intimate talk through games or challenges and may push to move interactions offline.
  • Officials note that many adults miss the coded meanings of emojis, which hampers early detection and enables escalation.
  • Parents are urged to supervise online activity, apply parental controls, protect personal data, teach children about grooming and report suspicious contact to 55 5242 5100 ext. 5086 or policia.cibernetica@ssc.cdmx.gob.mx.