Shocking revelations: Cybergrooming is threatening our children!
On September 11th, RTL will show an exciting experiment on cybergrooming with Steffen Hallaschka. Find out more about digital dangers!

Shocking revelations: Cybergrooming is threatening our children!
Cyber risks threatening our children – what an alarming topic! On September 11th at 8:15 p.m., RTL will show a startling TV experiment known as “Attack on Our Children.” Moderator Steffen Hallaschka will host the show, which aims to reveal the dark extent of cybergrooming. Four years after the first edition, an urgent problem that affects many families is once again tackled.
A frightening realization is not long in coming: According to a current survey by the State Media Authority of North Rhine-Westphalia from 2024, every fourth child between the ages of 8 and 17 was affected. This means that many parents and family members need to keep a watchful eye on their children's online activities.
The procedure of the experiment
An exciting experiment will be carried out in the upcoming broadcast. Two adult actresses pose as 12-year-old girls online and have to deal with dozens of requests for sexual interest within a few days. RTL reporter Maria Mack, who leads the project, previously analyzed the behavior of children on various social media platforms and connected to the actresses via headphones. This means she can give them real-time advice on how to respond to messages.
The experiment aims not only to reveal the perpetrators' methods, but also to show how the children affected feel. Media educator Saskia Nakari will analyze the perpetrators' strategies and examine the children's emotional state.
Initial results and support for parents
Another important element of the show is support for affected parents and viewers. Zebra Chat gives you the opportunity to ask questions and receive help directly. The shipment is also accompanied by a verification team that passes on information to the investigating authorities. As a result of the experiment, 15 criminal proceedings have already been initiated, which underlines the urgency and relevance of the issue.
The program will also feature experts from the fields of justice, psychology, prevention and criminal prosecution. They will provide valuable insights and discuss how parents can protect their children.
The RTL experiment promises to shed an insightful light on digital assault and help parents safely navigate their children through the online world. At precisely this time, when awareness of such topics is necessary, the show can help bring the topic of cybergrooming out of the taboo zone.