Overview

• Police data shows a record 7,062 cases of sexual communication with a child in 2023-24, an 89% increase since 2017-18.
• Snapchat was used in 48% of grooming cases where the communication method was recorded, making it the most prevalent platform.
• Meta-owned platforms like WhatsApp, Facebook, and Instagram accounted for 28% of the cases, a significant decrease from previous years.
• The NSPCC urges Ofcom to strengthen regulations under the Online Safety Act to better protect children from online predators.
• Snapchat states its commitment to zero tolerance for exploitation and outlines measures to safeguard young users.