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Belgian sects target children online

The Belgian "Safer internet" website held a forum on 13 April to warn against some of the “plagues” that can put Internet users at risk. Issues tackled in the forum included religious sects, racism and child pornography.
The operating methods of one religious cult were examined and discussed in detail.  It revealed some of the ways which certain sects use the Internet to propagate their doctrine.

The group’s leaders use the Internet to keep in touch with their sympathisers and make their "teachings" available to a wider public.  Internet users can also subscribe to a newsletter in order to be kept informed of the movement's latest activities.

The sect uses its website for online sales of its publications.  These publications include books for children.  The group also targets children by hosting online communities that are aimed specifically at a younger age group.  These communities are designed to enable those in the sect to come into contact with children online.

The sect in question was considered dangerous even to the physical health of those involved.  Its members interfere with medical treatment prescribed for terminal diseases, which clearly has potential fatal consequences.

This group, like many others, actively uses the Internet to exploit the numerous advantages of the medium and target vulnerable people.  The Safer Internet project in Belgium takes action against risks posed by such organisations.

Author: IACSSO-CIAOSN (Information and Advice Centre on Harmful Sectarian Organisations)
Published: Friday, 20 May 2005
Last changed: Tuesday, 25 Oct 2005
 
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