GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. (WOOD) — Michigan State Police have launched a new awareness campaign to shine a light on online sexual predators.

The campaign, called “Opening the Door,” is led by the Michigan Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force. Its goal is to draw attention to predatory online behavior like grooming and sextortion, and to encourage parents and adults to be proactive in talking to their children about online dangers.

“At any given time, there are tens of thousands of predators online looking to exploit children,” MSP Director Col. James F. Grady II said in a statement. “Any child who is online can be a target — even yours, so it’s important to have conversations with your children about what to do if they encounter a stranger online.”

The campaign is covered by federal funds and will use videos and a social media strategy to gain attention. It is expected to be active through the end of the year.

Capt. Lizabeth Rich, the commander of MSP’s Intelligence Operations Division, says education is the best defense against online predators.

“We encourage parents to work with their children to create a plan for internet use that includes parental controls. They should get comfortable talking about online dangers and familiarize themselves with how to report any odd activity they encounter,” Rich stated.

The Michigan ICAC has resources available for parents to use on its website. Child sexual exploitation and abuse, including grooming activities, can be reported to the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children.

The Michigan ICAC Task Force is part of a national network of 61 coordinated task forces and connected with more than 4,500 law enforcement agencies.