Global Study Finds 1 in 12 Children Exposed to Online Sexual Abuse

Researchers warn of escalating risks fueled by widespread internet access and call for urgent global action to protect children.

The Lancet study analyzed 123 studies across 57 countries, revealing that 8.1% of children worldwide have experienced online sexual abuse or exploitation.
Subtypes of abuse include online solicitation (12.5%), image-based abuse (12.6%), online sexual exploitation (4.7%), and sexual extortion (3.5%).
Researchers highlight the role of advancing technology, including AI and deepfakes, in increasing risks and complicating prevention efforts.
Experts urge global collaboration to implement safety-by-design principles, strengthen regulations, and educate children and families about online risks.
The findings underscore the need for robust prevention strategies, with researchers emphasizing that online abuse is preventable, not inevitable.