New Internet Watch Foundation data reveals a sharp rise in commercial child sexual abuse websites, with criminal gangs monetising children’s exploitation through subscription models and digital payments. The charity warns of systemic failures across online platforms, financial services and encrypted technologies that allow abuse to flourish. As reports of sexual extortion surge, particularly targeting boys, the IWF calls for stronger regulation of payment systems, encryption safeguards and decisive government action to disrupt the online economy of child sexual exploitation.
Crucial perspectives from a survivor and a senior analyst at the front line of the fight against child sexual abuse material anchored the EU launch of the Internet Watch Foundation’s 2025 Annual Data & Insights Report.
'We ask everyone to join this noble cause aimed towards curbing this vice that threatens our children’s well-being'.
Analysts at the Internet Watch Foundation (IWF) are preparing for an increase in public reporting of criminal material as a result of millions of people self-isolating at home.
IWF and Cyber safety technology company, White Bullet, announce their collaboration to stop the monetisation of child sexual abuse images and videos through digital advertising.
‘Protected by Mediocean’, a leading solution for holistic ad verification has joined the Internet Watch Foundation to strengthen safeguards in the digital media supply chain and help protect children online.
Minister praises work to find and remove images and videos of child sexual abuse from the internet, and says new legislation will aim to tackle the issue.
'The Minister of State for Security, James Brokenshire and the Minister for Safeguarding, Victoria Atkins engaged the Internet Watch Foundation on the threat during the pandemic.'
Internet Watch Foundation calls for partnership ahead of landmark Vatican conference.