Child and young people sexual exploration

The Child Exploitation and Online Protection Centre (CEOP) has published research which indicates that over the past two years, 184 children and young people from the UK have been victims of online sexual blackmail.

Out of these victims, six seriously self-harmed or attempted to take their own life, and one took their own life.

The CEOP centre, which will become a command within the National Crime Agency from next month, has also found that in some cases, children and young people are not only made to exchange sexual images/videos of themselves, but also forced by offenders to perform other acts live on webcam including writing degrading statements on their body and cutting themselves.

They are usually forced into performing these acts after the offender, who often initially pretends to be a child, threatens to share their naked pictures with friends and family unless they do as they are told.

Offenders initially target children and young people on more open chat sites and social networks before quickly moving them into more private areas where conversations become sexualised. Once the victim has sent images, the offenders begin blackmailing them either for more indecent images or, in few cases, for cash. And unless they agree, the offender threatens to share the pictures with their family and friends.

The NSPCC has set up a dedicated helpline on 0800 389 1701 for those who need help or advice or are concerned about a child or young person at risk of online sexual blackmail. The charity has also published advice on sexting at www.nspcc.org.uk/help-and-advice/for-parents/talking-about-sex/sexting/sexting_wda96795.html.