As summer progresses and children spend more time online, it’s crucial to recognize the dual role technology plays in both facilitating and combating child sexual exploitation. Recent insights from the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC) highlight the urgency of this issue. At Ho’ōla Nā Pua, our mission extends beyond providing a safe haven for survivors; we are committed to preventing these atrocities from happening in the first place.
The NCMEC’s recent CyberTipline report reveals staggering figures: 36.2 million reports of suspected child sexual exploitation and over 104 million files of suspected child sexual abuse material (CSAM). These numbers represent real children enduring horrific abuse, underscoring the urgent need for a comprehensive response. The report highlights that nearly 60% of these cases involve family members or trusted adults. This alarming statistic drives home the need for vigilant, community-wide efforts to protect our youth.
Modern technologies have unfortunately made it easier for predators to commit these heinous acts. However, these same technologies can be harnessed to combat and prevent abuse. This is where tech companies come in.
At Thorn, they utilize AI and machine learning (ML) to identify and combat CSAM. Their Safer Predict solution uses predictive AI to detect unknown CSAM and potentially harmful conversations online. These tools help law enforcement agencies expedite investigations and identify victims faster, ensuring swift action to protect and recover children from abusive situations.
Despite the rising reports of child sexual abuse and exploitation, only a small portion of digital platforms actively submit reports to NCMEC. Every content-hosting platform must recognize its role in the child safety ecosystem and the potential it has to protect children. By submitting high-quality reports with key user information, tech companies can significantly aid in pinpointing offenses and facilitating the removal of children from harmful environments.
The interconnectedness of the internet means that abuse can spread rapidly across multiple platforms. It’s imperative that tech companies collaborate and share insights to combat this issue collectively. This collaborative approach will ensure a united front against child sexual exploitation and abuse.
Generative AI poses new threats, making it easier to create and distribute CSAM. Last year, NCMEC received thousands of reports involving AI-generated exploitative content. This highlights the need for proactive measures to prevent the misuse of emerging technologies. The tech industry must ensure that new applications are built with robust safeguards to protect children from exploitation.
We must see technology as our ally in the fight against child sexual abuse. The scale of this issue demands a response of equal magnitude. By building leading-edge technology, expanding partnerships, and bringing more tech companies and lawmakers to the table, we can make significant strides in protecting our children.
Recovering children from exploitation is only the first step. Post-recovery support is critical to their healing and reintegration into society. Pearl Haven provides a safe and nurturing environment where survivors can begin their journey to recovery. With comprehensive care that includes therapy, education, and mentorship, Pearl Haven empowers these young individuals to rebuild their lives and look forward to a brighter future.
The fight against child sexual exploitation requires a collective effort. When the best and brightest minds in technology join forces, we can create a safer world where every child is free to simply be a kid. At Ho’ōla Nā Pua, we believe that by setting #DigitalBoundaries and utilizing the resources available through #Know2Protect, we can create a safer digital world for our children and teens.
Sign our petition to advocate for stronger protections and policies to combat child exploitation: Sign the Petition Here
Register for our upcoming webinar on online safety to learn practical ways to protect children in the digital age: Register Here
In service and hope,
Jessica Munoz
Founder, Ho’ōla Nā Pua / Pearl Haven
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