Specialist lawyer's concerns over alarming increase in reports of online child sexual abuse

Reflecting on the latest data from Police Scotland, as a specialist abuse lawyer I'm deeply troubled by the alarming increase in reports of online child sexual abuse and exploitation. 

Facts and figures

Between April 1, 2023, and March 31, 2024, there were 2,055 recorded cyber-enabled sexual crimes against children in Scotland. This represents a 21 percent increase from the previous year, with 364 more cases reported.

Three specific offence types accounted for two-thirds of these crimes: causing or coercing children to see or hear sexual images or content, communicating indecently with a child, and the possession or distribution of indecent images of children. These statistics are not just numbers; they represent real children whose lives have been impacted by these heinous acts.

Urgent measures needed to protect children

The scale of online child sexual abuse and exploitation (OCSAE) is staggering. A recent study by the University of Edinburgh’s Childlight initiative estimated that 300 million children worldwide fall victim to online sexual abuse and exploitation each year. This global perspective underscores the urgent need for comprehensive measures to protect our children.

In the UK, the National Crime Agency has estimated that between 1.3% and 1.6% of adults pose varying degrees of risk to children. This statistic is a sobering reminder of the potential dangers that exist within our communities.

What can we do?

As I process these facts, I am compelled to advocate for stronger protections and more robust interventions to safeguard our children from online predators. It is imperative that we work together—parents, educators, law enforcement, and policymakers—to create a safer digital environment for our youngest and most vulnerable members of society. 

Find out more about Irwin Mitchell's expertise in supporting survivors of abuse at our dedicated abuse and criminal injuries section.