A 52-year-old man is under investigation for allegedly communicating with a minor through an online platform in August of the previous year.

The child ceased all communication, blocked the man on the app, and ultimately did not show up to a planned meeting at a shopping center.

Several months later, the Australian Federal Police (AFP) received a tip-off from the US-based National Centre for Missing and Exploited Children, prompting them to launch a formal investigation.

In June, law enforcement officers executed a search warrant at the man’s residence, confiscating a mobile phone in the process.

Although messages and other data had been deleted from the device, investigators successfully retrieved the information with the assistance of the platform.

The man was charged in October with using a carriage service to procure a person under 16 years of age and using a carriage service to transmit indecent communication to a person under 16 years of age.

The crimes carry maximum sentences of 15 years’ and 10 years’ imprisonment respectively.

Leading Senior Constable Paul Graham said the investigation was a reminder of what children can be exposed to online.

“Indecent messages aimed at children are abhorrent, and the AFP investigates these matters intensely to put offenders before the court,” Graham said.

“Offenders look to exploit children online however they can, so it’s always important for parents to be mindful of who children could be interacting with online.”

Readers seeking support can contact Lifeline on 13 11 14 or beyond blue on 1300 22 4636.

Kids Helpline 1800 55 1800.