Published: Wed 25 Apr 2018
The Independent Inquiry into Child Sexual Abuse today released its Interim Report. The report can be found here.
The IWF has commented in response to section 5.1 The Internet.
Susie Hargreaves OBE, IWF CEO, said: “The IWF welcomes the Interim Report by the Independent Inquiry into Child Sexual Abuse. Sadly, we’re not shocked to hear that police forces have seen a 700% increase in referrals of child sexual abuse cases online since 2012-2013 and an average of 3,500 referrals a month by the end of August 2016.
“Having just released our 2017 Annual Report figures, we have seen an increase of 37% in webpages containing confirmed child sexual abuse imagery since 2016. While our analysts have worked harder than ever to make sure these images and videos are removed from the internet, we also know what we’re seeing could just be the tip of the iceberg.
“More can be and must be done to tackle this problem. Child sexual abuse victims can face a lifetime of torment. The Inquiry’s Interim Report is a hugely positive step forward. But we cannot be complacent and all those involved need to continue to work together, to put the needs of the victims first.”
After 13 successful years at the helm of the Internet Watch Foundation (IWF), Susie Hargreaves OBE is leaving to take up a new opportunity.
The IWF welcomes the Government's commitment to keeping children safe online
The Internet Watch Foundation (IWF) is urging Ministers to act swiftly and ensure world-leading legislation to protect children online is not put at risk by further Government delays.