Published by on

Snapchat is the top platform for recorded sexual offences against children, according to a new analysis of UK police and NSPCC data that lists the platform at 54%, followed by Instagram at 11% and Facebook at 7%, reports Cape {town} Etc.

The figures, compiled from 44 UK police forces and summarised by the NSPCC, come as charities warn tech design makes private messaging spaces an easy route for offenders to contact young people.

The NSPCC says police recorded 7263 Sexual Communication with a Child offence last year and where platforms were identified Snapchat accounted for the largest share.

South African experts say the local picture mirrors global trends. Christine Muhigana, UNICEF South Africa representative, cautioned: ‘

The online world for children presents many positive opportunities. This study also reaffirms the importance of better protecting children from exposure to the dangers online that can so affect their emotional and physical wellbeing.’ (United Nations South Africa)

Child-protection clinicians add that grooming is starting younger. Dr Shaheda Omar of the Teddy Bear Foundation warned that ‘grooming now starts as young as 8 to 10 years old.’

Dr Omar urged schools, caregivers and platforms to strengthen prevention and reporting routes.

A recent national study on OCSEA also finds substantial online risk for South African children, underscoring the need for coordinated action by government, civil society and tech companies.

Be the first to know – Join our WhatsApp Channel for content worth tapping into! Click here to join! 

Also read:

Teacher among two arrested for alleged sexual offences against minors

Picture: Abdulkadir Emiroğlu / Pexels

Article written by