Online sexual abuse of children has ‘soared by 250 per cent in just three years,’ shock NSPCC report reveals
In 2016 there were 3,716 Childline counselling sessions - sparking fears over the rise of digital Christmas presents
ONLINE sexual abuse of children has soared by a massive 250 per cent in just three years according to damning new statistics from the NSPCC.
Britain’s leading child abuse charity says need for their counselling service after internet based sex attacks rose 24 per cent year on year - but has more than trebled since 2014.
Children contacted the NSPCC with complaints about grooming, sexting, being made to perform sex acts on webcam, meet up in person and viewing distressing sexually explicit content.
In 2016 there were 3,716 Childline counselling sessions undertaken by the charity, compared to 2,994 in 2015 and 1,061 in 2014.
The charity urged parents to talk about online safety when giving kids new internet devices this Christmas.
An NSPCC spokesman said: “With tablets, smart phones, and games consoles appearing on many children’s Christmas list, it is vital that parents talk to their children about being safe online, spotting the signs of inappropriate behaviour, and how to report it."
They added: "Online sexual abuse was such a big problem for children last year that it took up a third of all contacts about online issues, including bullying and safety."
The NSPCC pointed to a case where 14-year-old girl told Childline: “I met this guy through social media and he was really nice; he told me I was beautiful and I felt that I could talk to him about everything.
“He asked me for some topless photos which I didn’t think was a big deal, so I sent him a few.
“But now he’s turned really nasty and is threatening to post them online if I don’t send him more. I’m really worried and embarrassed and I don’t know what to do.”
NSPCC CEO Peter Wanless said: “The web can be a fantastic place for children and young people to socialise, explore their interests, and learn, but every parent buying an internet device should be aware that there are risks, too and think about installing parental controls.“In the last year we’ve seen a staggering rise in online sexual abuse, with many children turning to Childline when the situation has escalated.
“Often groomers will use devious tactics to lure in young people and manipulate them into situations that leave them feeling frightened and ashamed. The NSPCC has lots of resources to help parents talk about online issues so that they can help keep a child safe and happy online.”
RELATED STORIES
Responding the the shocking new figures the Government also urged caution.
Minister for Digital and Culture policy Matt Hancock said: "It is essential to make sure children can enjoy all the benefits of the internet as safely as possible - whether that is for playing games, gathering information or staying in touch with family and friends.
He added: "As well as teaching children to be aware of online safety in the curriculum, keeping children safe online is a joint effort, and there are a range of simple and practical steps parents can take this Christmas to better protect their children from online risks.
"This includes using the NSPCC's online resources and the UK Council for Child Internet Safety guide for parents."