Child victims of online sexual abuse in UK poorly protected, review finds

Child victims of online sexual abuse in UK poorly protected, review finds
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A UK review has found that child victims of online sexual abuse are not being adequately protected, as police forces struggle to keep pace with a sharp rise in cases, The Guardian reported.

The report by His Majesty’s Inspectorate of Constabulary and Fire & Rescue Services warns that insufficient funding, staffing shortages, and lack of coordination are undermining efforts to safeguard children. Referrals for online child abuse increased significantly from 12,469 in 2023 to 20,704 in 2024—an annual rise of roughly two-thirds—placing growing pressure on already overstretched investigators.

According to the findings, some officers are handling up to 54 active cases at once, while forensic analysis of suspects’ digital devices can take up to two years. These delays leave victims exposed to ongoing risks, with the report describing such waiting periods as “unacceptable.”

The review also criticizes policing practices that rely on voluntary interviews instead of arrests, warning that this approach may allow suspects to continue offending online without restrictions such as bail conditions or device seizures.

The report highlights the increasing role of technology, including artificial intelligence, in facilitating abuse, while noting that many police forces lack adequate digital tools and training to respond effectively.