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Latest online trend may endanger kids: RCMP

RCMP asks parents to be aware of their children's online activities as the latest internet trend targeted at kids could endanger them as false missing persons claims strain resources. A woman uses her computer keyboard to type while surfing the internet in North Vancouver, B.C., on Wednesday, December, 19, 2012. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Jonathan Hayward

Online fads and challenges come and go.

However, RCMP remind parents and guardians to be wary of the latest viral trend aimed at kids

Users on social media allege the “48-hour challenge” dares children and teens to hide for the allotted time.

Kids earn points if they go “missing” and law enforcement mention their names.

Sgt. Raymond Tardif of the “K” Division Missing Persons Unit says fake reports are a strain on resources.

“We don’t want youth putting themselves in danger to keep up with online trends. We remind parents to be aware of their children’s online activities.”

Currently, there isn’t a link between the 48-hour challenge and recent missing youth in the province.

Nevertheless, RCMP suggest keeping lines of communication open with your kids and teaching them to get your consent before downloading anything.