Child victims of online sexual abuse in UK inadequately protected, review finds
Summary
A report warns that child victims of online sexual abuse in the UK are not being protected well enough because police are overwhelmed by a sharp rise in these crimes. The report calls for urgent action, better technology, more staff, and national training to improve investigations and safeguard children.Key Facts
- Online child sexual abuse cases have risen by nearly two-thirds from 12,469 in 2023 to 20,704 in 2024.
- Police officers often handle up to 54 online abuse cases at once, causing long delays in investigations.
- Digital checks of suspects’ devices can take up to two years, leaving victims at risk for a long time.
- Some police forces avoid arresting suspects due to heavy workloads, which keeps children vulnerable.
- The report says new technology and AI help offenders create and manipulate illegal images of children.
- Many police units lack proper digital tools and training to examine suspects’ devices effectively.
- The report suggests creating national training on online child abuse and reviewing staff numbers.
- Some forces use lie detector tests to find new offenses and protect victims, a practice recommended for all.
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