Know2Protect campaign raises awareness at Daytona 500, empowering fans to protect children from online exploitation 

DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. — The Know2Protect campaign is excited to announce its recent participation at the iconic Daytona 500, Feb. 16. This event gave Know2Protect the opportunity to reach a vast audience and empower fans with essential knowledge and tools to protect children from the dangers of online exploitation and abuse.

With the increasing prevalence of digital interactions, it is critical that parents, caregivers, and children are equipped to navigate the online world safely. The Know2Protect booth at the Daytona 500 provided a variety of educational opportunities, offering resources and expert-led discussions designed to raise awareness about the risks children face in digital spaces.

“This was a great opportunity to connect with a wide, diverse audience and equip them with the essential knowledge to safeguard children from online predators and exploitation,” said K2P Campaign Director Kate Kennedy. "Every conversation we have brings us one step closer to a safer online environment for kids across the nation."

At the Know2Protect booth, attendees had the chance to:

• Speak with experts about online safety and child protection
• Access resources on how to recognize and prevent online exploitation
• Learn practical tips for securing personal devices and monitoring online activity

NASCAR, a founding partner of the Know2Protect campaign, has played a pivotal role in using its massive platform to shine a light on the dangers of online child sexual exploitation and abuse. Last year, Know2Protect hosted a booth for thousands of fans at the Talladega Speedway during the YellaWood 500, offering information on how to receive online safety training from local U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement Homeland Security Investigations special agents . The partnership has also enabled Know2Protect to reach younger audiences online through the NASCAR Kids Club. As part of its outreach, the campaign shared links to the Know2Protect Digital Safety Series videos on its YouTube playlist, downloadable resources, and the Know2Protect.gov kids and teens page in the September 2024 NASCAR Kids’ newsletter, reaching over 24,000 subscribers.

The partnership also expanded Know2Protect's impact by airing a compelling Know2Protect Public service Announcement at NASCAR owned tracks during the 2024 racing season. Titled "It Only Takes 19 Seconds," the PSA illustrates how an innocent online conversation between a child and a stranger on a gaming platform can quickly escalate into a dangerous situation in just 19 seconds.

“By partnering with NASCAR, we’re reaching a new generation of fans, educating them about online safety, and providing critical resources to help keep children safe from exploitation,” said ICE HSI Cyber and Operational Technology Division Assistant Director Sean Fitzgerald.” We’re proud to work alongside NASCAR to raise awareness about this growing issue and ensure families are equipped with the knowledge necessary to protect their children.”

Know2Protect is committed to empowering individuals and communities to take action in safeguarding children online. By participating in events like the Daytona 500, the campaign continues to expand its reach and foster a culture of digital safety across the nation.

About Know2Protect

Know2Protect is a national public awareness campaign from the Department of Homeland Security. K2P’s aim is to educate and empower children, teens, parents, trusted adults and policymakers to prevent, combat and report online child sexual exploitation and abuse. For more information, please visit Know2Protect’s YouTube playlists at Know2Protect Campaign PSA Playlist and Know2Protect Digital Safety Series Playlist on the DHS main channel. Additional resources are available at Know2Protect.gov and @Know2Protect on Instagram, Facebook and X.