Displaying items by tag: online protection

A concerning rise in online sextortion cases among children in the UK has been revealed, with nearly 400 incidents reported to the Report Remove helpline last year - a 23% increase. Alarmingly, 98% of these reports came from boys aged 14 to 17, highlighting a significant and growing vulnerability among young males. Sextortion involves criminals coercing children into sharing sexual images and then blackmailing them - either for money or further content - under threat of exposure. The Internet Watch Foundation (IWF) confirmed a sharp increase in overall reports of sexual imagery, with over 1,100 verified cases in 2025 alone. Experts warn that shame, fear, and isolation often prevent young people from seeking help, while the psychological impact can be severe and long-lasting. Encouragingly, increased reporting suggests growing awareness and willingness to seek support. There are calls for stronger safeguards, including technology to prevent image-sharing and better-targeted education to protect vulnerable children.