BEND, OR -- A local anti-human trafficking group has paired up with a Martial Arts studio to offer a unique self-defense class for women, this weekend. Alex Dugan, with the Bend-based tech company Guardian Group, says the first part of the free seminar focuses on social media safety. "We go into the long-distance self-defense, the cyber self-defense; the things that you can do online, on your social media profile to protect yourself from predators marking you as a target." She says predators often groom potential victims through the internet. Dugan suggests not posting on social media about your emotional state, "Because that’s a way that you portray your vulnerabilities and predators like to capitalize on that. The other thing I would say is, don’t share your location; don’t check in to places. People can start tracking that."

 

Whether a woman is online or out in the community, Dugan tells KBND News self-esteem is a big factor in safety. "If an individual or young woman is walking around with her head held high and she’s looking confident, the likelihood of a predator trying to take advantage of her is much lower than it would be if she’s showing signs of sadness or lack of self-confidence."

 

Saturday's seminar takes place at Clark’s University of Martial Arts in northeast Bend, from 11 to 1. Women will also learn hands-on self-defense techniques. Dugan hopes to offer the trainings each month.