UNICEF says 20 million children faced online sexual abuse in one year,.

Published by: Greatfuture Info

September 3, New Delhi:

 Around 20 million internet-using children across 21 countries experienced sexual exploitation or abuse online in a single year, according to a new UNICEF report.

The study found that more than one in five children aged 12 to 17 experienced at least one form of online sexual abuse.

Nearly 60% of reported cases occurred on social media, including Facebook, WhatsApp, Instagram, Snapchat and TikTok.

UNICEF says about 15 million children were exposed to unwanted sexual content, while millions more were pressured into sexual conversations or had intimate images shared without consent.

The report also highlights growing concerns over AI-generated sexual content. In nine countries surveyed, around 1.1 million children said AI-generated sexual images or videos had been created depicting them.

UNICEF says fewer than 1% of cases were reported to authorities or helplines, while affected children were more likely to experience anxiety, suicidal thoughts or self-harm.

The agency is urging governments and technology companies to strengthen online safety measures, update laws to address AI-related abuse, and improve systems for reporting and protecting children.