Federal authorities are sounding the alarm over a disturbing rise in child sextortion cases nationwide, urging parents to take proactive steps to protect their children online.

The FBI reports a growing number of incidents in which minors are coerced by strangers into sending explicit images or money. Known as "sextortion," these cases often begin with someone posing as a peer on social media or gaming platforms, building trust before making demands.

A recent case out of Indiana highlights the severity of the issue. A man pleaded guilty to sextorting at least 68 children via social media, according to the U.S. Attorney's Office for the Southern District of Indiana.

Ashley Kizler, a special agent with the FBI's Chicago Field Office, investigates child sextortion cases in the region. Whil

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