What does it mean to groom someone online?

Grooming someone online refers to the process by which an individual builds a relationship with a minor or vulnerable person through the internet with the intent to exploit or abuse them. This often involves manipulation, emotional bonding, and establishing trust to lower the victim’s defenses. Groomers may use various platforms, including social media, gaming, or chat rooms, to engage with their targets and may eventually lead to inappropriate or harmful interactions. The goal is often to prepare the victim for abuse, making it a serious form of online predation.