'Pedobear' is Besetting the Internet and Bemusing Cops
Amelia Roblin — September 13, 2010 — Pop Culture
References: urlesque & valleywag.gawker
The adorable furry cartoon known as ‘Pedobear' has been appearing all over the Internet for some time, but the authorities are only just catching on. The little brown bear crops up on blogs and forums, placed by online addicts everywhere as a symbolic comment on the appropriateness of a post or photo.
Despite being a lighthearted symbol meant to mock pedophilia, the 'Pedobear' has just been flagged by the San Luis Obispo County Sheriff’s office as a dangerous mascot of Internet child predators. The authorities are now beginning to inform parents of their own inaccurate understanding of the cartoon meme, advising them to keep their kids clear of any of his manifestations, whether online, on bumper stickers or as costumes in broad daylight.
Despite being a lighthearted symbol meant to mock pedophilia, the 'Pedobear' has just been flagged by the San Luis Obispo County Sheriff’s office as a dangerous mascot of Internet child predators. The authorities are now beginning to inform parents of their own inaccurate understanding of the cartoon meme, advising them to keep their kids clear of any of his manifestations, whether online, on bumper stickers or as costumes in broad daylight.
Trend Themes
1. Misinterpreted Memes - Opportunity to create awareness and education around the proper interpretation and use of memes to avoid misunderstandings.
2. Symbolic Commentary - Growing interest in using memes as a non-verbal way to express opinions and critique societal issues.
3. Internet Safety - Increase in efforts to educate parents about online safety and protecting children from potential online risks.
Industry Implications
1. Social Media - Opportunity for social media platforms to develop guidelines and policies to ensure the responsible use of memes and avoid misconceptions.
2. Digital Education - Increasing demand for online courses and resources on media literacy and digital citizenship to promote internet safety.
3. Law Enforcement - Need for law enforcement agencies to stay updated on internet culture and memes to better protect and educate communities about potential risks.
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