Child Sexual Abuse (CSA)

Internet Offending is a growing form of Child Sexual Abuse.

Imagery

Imagery is viewed, downloaded, shared and stored over the internet and offender networks will share live streamed material. Imagery is classed in categories from A to C depending on severity.

In the Internet Watch Foundation annual report, ‘Self-generated’ imagery was found to be the most predominant type of child sexual abuse imagery – just over 7 in 10 reports include this type of content. Self-generated imagery is imagery of children that they have captured themselves via a phone, tablet or computer camera, often in their own homes. This material can be one of three broad categories:

• Non-sexual images that are appropriated and used in connection with child sexual exploitation and abuse online. These may be manipulated by offenders and then used to blackmail children.
• Voluntarily ‘self-generated’ material, often shared between adolescent peers. Harm is typically caused when this imagery is re-shared.
• ‘Coerced self-generated’ imagery involves grooming of children to create sexual imagery on camera, which is referred to as ‘capping’.

Grooming

The internet allows offenders to approach children on social media channels, instant messaging apps, live streaming platforms and online gaming to build rapport with a child. This can then lead to blackmail and potential contact abuse. Offenders will frequently use newer platforms with underdeveloped safety mechanisms and awareness. Offenders will use these same platforms to then share advice on how to avoid detection.

Sites with useful resources for parents, carers, and professionals:

Research found a lack of parental involvement and understanding of children’s internet use was seen to be a risk factor.

• Stop it Now! work to prevent child sexual abuse, working with people who are worried about themselves and others and help to support parents and families.
• The Child Exploitation and Online Protection unit (CEOP) site
• ThinkUKnow
• Internet Watch Foundation