Alarming jump in online child abuse and exploitation cases
Police are urging parents to talk to their children about online safety in the wake of rising numbers of child exploitation and sexual abuse cases in British Columbia.
RCMP say there has been more than 5,790 online cases received from January to March 31 of this year, which is on pace to double the 9,600 cases from 2022.
Reports of online child exploitation rose dramatically during the COVID pandemic, and police have since seen that upward trend continue.
“The sad truth is, there are people that use the internet to victimize and exploit youth,” Staff Sgt. Kris Clark with RCMP E Division said.
“Our children are continually being targeted online, and it is important for youth, and their guardians to stay alert.”
Clark said predators can find ways to have direct contact with youth on various social media platforms, even in their in their homes and seemingly safe.
“Kids of all ages are increasingly vulnerable in our always-online world,” Clark said.
“We encourage parents and guardians to talk to their children about online safety and to be vigilant of unsolicited friend requests,” Cpl. Sharen Leung, of BC Integrated Child Exploitation Unit (ICE), said.
“Safe online habits can go a long way to protecting kids from exploitation, but parent awareness is also key.”
Case numbers in British Columbia:
- 2021 – Over 4600 reports received
- 2022 – Over 9600 reports received
- 2023 [Jan 01 to March 31] – Over 5790 reports received to date
The BC RCMP Integrated Child Exploitation (BC ICE) Unit receives referrals from the National Centre for Missing & Exploited Children as well as the Federal Bureau of Investigation, U.S. Homeland Security Investigations, cybertip.ca, Crimestoppers, Interpol and many other international policing partners.