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Safety Standards Against Child Sexual Abuse 
and Exploitation (CSAE)

For "Stepping Forward" – A Private Social Media App for Foster Children and Adults

 

1. Our Commitment to Safety

At "Stepping Forward," we are committed to creating a safe and supportive environment for foster children and adults in Los Angeles. The well-being of our users, especially minors, is our top priority. We have zero tolerance for any form of Child Sexual Abuse and Exploitation (CSAE) and have implemented robust measures to prevent, detect, and respond to such activities.

 

2. Prevention Measures

To protect our users, we have established the following preventive measures:

a. Age Verification and Restrictions

  • All users must verify their age during registration.

  • Minors (under 18) are placed in a restricted environment with additional safeguards.

  • Adults and minors are separated into distinct user groups to ensure appropriate interactions.

b. Content Moderation

  • All user-generated content (posts, messages, images, etc.) is monitored using AI-based filters and human moderators.

  • Prohibited content includes, but is not limited to:

    • Sexually explicit material.

    • Grooming behavior or inappropriate communication with minors.

    • Any form of exploitation or abuse.

c. Privacy and Security

  • User data is encrypted and stored securely.

  • Personal information is never shared with third parties without consent.

  • Foster children’s profiles are set to private by default, and only approved connections can interact with them.

 

3. Detection and Reporting

We use advanced tools and processes to detect and address CSAE:

a. Automated Detection

  • AI-powered systems scan for suspicious behavior, such as grooming language or inappropriate content.

  • Flagged content is immediately reviewed by our moderation team.

b. User Reporting

  • Users can report inappropriate behavior or content through:

  • All reports are reviewed within 24 hours, and appropriate action is taken.

c. Collaboration with Authorities

  • In cases of suspected CSAE, we work closely with law enforcement agencies and child protection organizations in Los Angeles.

  • We comply with all legal requirements, including reporting obligations under federal and state laws.

 

4. Response and Enforcement

  • Any user found violating our CSAE policies will be immediately banned from the platform.

  • Reported content is removed promptly, and users are notified of the action taken.

  • Repeat offenders are reported to the relevant authorities.

 

5. Education and Awareness

  • We provide educational resources within the app to help foster children and adults recognize and report CSAE.

  • Regular updates and tips on online safety are shared with our community.

 

6. Contact Us

If you have any concerns or questions about child safety, please contact us:

  • Email: app@steppingforwardla.org

  • Phone: (310) 270-3466 (available Monday–Friday, 9 AM–5 PM PST)

  • Mailing Address: 1270 S. Alfred Street #2154, Los Angeles, CA 90035

 

7. Compliance with Laws

"Stepping Forward" complies with all applicable laws and regulations, including:

  • Children’s Online Privacy Protection Act (COPPA)

  • California Child Sexual Abuse Prevention Act

  • Federal Laws on Child Exploitation

 

8. Updates to This Policy

We regularly review and update our safety standards to ensure they meet the highest levels of protection. The latest version of this policy will always be available on our website.

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