A new report from the Childlight Global Child Safety Institute has revealed that more than one in four children (27 per cent) are being groomed online, with many pressured into sending inappropriate images. The study, based on 147 surveys across 60 countries, indicates that 38.6 per cent of girls and 19 per cent of boys experience online grooming before reaching 18 years old.
Key Findings from the Report
The 'Into the Light Data Update' report, launched at the World Health Assembly, also found that one in 10 children may experience 'sextortion' – a form of blackmail involving sexual images. Alarmingly, approximately 1,500 individuals globally possess 'paedophile manuals' designed to evade justice. Childlight reported that over 300 million children endured some form of online sexual exploitation last year, with an additional 130 million experiencing offline abuse in 2024.
Experts Label It a 'Worldwide Health Emergency'
Professor Debi Fry, Childlight’s global director of data, and campaigner Rhiannon-Faye McDonald have emphasised the long-lasting trauma and health impacts of child sexual abuse. They urge governments to recognise this issue as a critical public health priority. The scale of the crisis has led experts to label it a 'worldwide health emergency'.
Support for Those Affected
If you are experiencing feelings of distress, or are struggling to cope, you can speak to the Samaritans, in confidence, on 116 123 (UK and ROI), email jo@samaritans.org, or visit the Samaritans website to find details of your nearest branch.
If you are based in the USA, and you or someone you know needs mental health assistance right now, call or text 988, or visit 988lifeline.org to access online chat from the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline. This is a free, confidential crisis hotline that is available to everyone 24 hours a day, seven days a week. If you are in another country, you can go to www.befrienders.org to find a helpline near you.
Parents of Sextortion Victim Sue Meta
In a related development, the parents of a teenager who took his own life after being a victim of sextortion have sued Instagram owners Meta. This case highlights the devastating consequences of online exploitation and the urgent need for stronger protections for children.
