KUALA LUMPUR — Predators targeting minors on social media are not acting randomly, but follow calculated and deliberate patterns designed to exploit vulnerability and build trust over time.
Criminologist Datuk P. Sundramoorthy said individuals often begin by studying publicly available content on platforms such as TikTok to identify underage users who may appear emotionally vulnerable, isolated or in need of attention.
“Predators often exploit the design and culture of social media platforms such as TikTok to identify and engage with underage users,” he said.
Once a target is identified, initial contact is subtle, often through likes, comments or direct messages, before gradually progressing into deeper interaction.
“What follows is a gradual grooming process, where the individual builds trust by mirroring interests, offering excessive praise and presenting themselves as understanding and supportive,” he added.
This stage is critical, as it creates a false sense of safety and connection. Over time, predators may attempt to move conversations away from public platforms.
“They may attempt to shift conversations into private channels, encourage secrecy and create a sense of exclusivity or emotional dependence,” he said.
According to Sundramoorthy, the danger lies in how subtle and incremental the process is, making it difficult for young users to recognise manipulation.
“This progression is usually subtle and incremental, making it difficult for young users to recognise the manipulation,” he said.
Several warning signs are often missed, particularly when emotional bonds begin to form quickly.
“One key indicator is the rapid intensification of the relationship, where a stranger quickly becomes a close confidant,” he explained.
He also pointed to requests to move conversations to private messaging apps as a major red flag, as it reduces visibility and oversight.
“Additionally, inconsistencies in personal details, subtle boundary violations and offers of gifts or financial incentives are often ignored once trust has been established,” he said.
Sundramoorthy stressed that harm in digital spaces rarely happens instantly, but develops over time through emotional manipulation.
“Ultimately, these interactions highlight how harm in digital spaces is rarely sudden but develops through calculated emotional manipulation,” he said, underscoring the need for greater awareness, digital literacy and open communication between young users and trusted adults.
Earlier, the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) underscored the critical role of parents and guardians in safeguarding minors online, stressing that digital safety cannot rely solely on regulation.
While the Online Safety Act 2025 (ONSA), which came into force in January 2026, aims to strengthen protections for minors by addressing harmful content and placing greater accountability on digital platforms, MCMC emphasised that safeguarding children remains a shared responsibility between authorities, platforms and families.
The commission said parents must take a more proactive approach by implementing parental controls, monitoring privacy settings and actively guiding their children towards responsible online behaviour.— April 6, 2026