On 3 April, essential child protection systems used by technology companies to detect and remove online child sexual abuse material will become illegal to operate in the EU unless the European Parliament votes to extend the current legal framework. A temporary law allowing voluntary detection is expiring, and political deadlock has stalled a permanent solution. This will create a dangerous legal vacuum that perpetrators are aware of and poised to exploit. Proven tools like hash‑matching - which do not compromise privacy - would be forced offline, enabling millions of known abusive images to resurface. Research shows these systems deter offenders and make access harder; disabling them will reverse this progress. MEPs have one final chance to act by voting for an amendment that preserves protections for children across Europe.
Discover how IWF collaborates globally to eradicate online child sexual abuse, focusing on innovation, partnerships and safeguarding efforts.
Research report by PIER at Anglia Ruskin University, providing insight into girls and their parents' understanding of self-generated CSAM.
The IWF is one of the most effective hotlines in the world at removing child sexual abuse imagery from the internet, but this has only been possible thanks to the key international partnerships.
This report conducted in collaboration with the Policing Institute for the Eastern Region (PIER) highlights the gravity of self-generated child sexual abuse material.
IWF wants to help young people stay safe online by making sure you know what to do if you accidentally see sexual images or videos of someone you think might be under 18.
New report identifies honest communication as pivotal in battle to stop ‘self-generated’ child sexual abuse material.
Alarming increase in online grooming and child sexual abuse imagery, particularly among under 10s, in 2023 as reported by the IWF.
A new national campaign features suggestive images of fruit, while radio ads feature Cunk on Earth star Diane Morgan.
A cyber-led sporting challenge reaches new heights: expanding impact in tear two. Pinsent Masons’ steadfast commitment has done more than just raise funds; it has put a spotlight on the critical work of the IWF.
New IWF partnership strengthens Bluesky’s ability to tackle child sexual abuse imagery