Online sexual exploitation incidents soar

THE trend of online sexual exploitation came under the spotlight during Child Protection Week as local human trafficking organisation, Freedom Generation brought awareness to the online dangers children face on social media and on gaming platforms.

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Head of Freedom Generation, Pastor Caroline Pitout reiterated that child protection is a holistic approach and often because one cannot see the exploitation and disappearance of children in front of one’s eyes, we believe it is not happening.

An increase in online sexual exploitation has been seen since the start of lockdown as perpetrators use online avenues to target their victims.

‘As online sexual exploitation cannot be seen, it is not reported, and then it is not noted or documented.

‘Parents can also become relaxed because it might appear as if there are no cases being reported, so they do not pay attention to the online games or websites frequented by their children.

‘One parent told us it is easier to buy their child a Play Station to keep them entertained, but they did not realise how easy it was for their child to fall prey to a crime like sexual online exploitation.

‘These are things you cannot see in your home, but be observant to subtle changes in your child, which you might overlook as rebellion, as they could be signs the child is being exploited.

‘With a holistic approach, it is not only about physically protecting your child but also protecting them emotionally and spiritually.

‘Influences are great out there and because human trafficking is an organised crime, perpetrators execute the crimes over a long period of time and very often use a relation approach.’

During Child Protection Week which was commemorated last week, Pitout said they wanted people to understand that these crimes happen whether we can see it or not, and it could be likely happening in your home without you even being aware of it.

Online dangers must be shared with children and they must be encouraged to never share their true identity on any online platforms, including gaming platforms, and never migrate their personal information to WhatsApp.

‘Don’t share photos, and remember there is a difference from an online friend and a friend in real life.

‘Our children sometimes cannot distinguish the difference, and the best advice for them when engaging in any online chats while they are playing games, is that they must immediately report if anyone is sending them naked photos or if they are being asked to send nude pictures of themselves.’

Spreading awareness
Freedom Generation’s School for Superkids booklet, which focuses on creating human trafficking awareness at a young age, is currently being used by all their partners in KZN to create awareness in schools on an ongoing basis.

In addition, the organisation is raising Slackovists – activists who stay at their home and use their phone to engage in and share topics on human trafficking or child protection, and bring about awareness.

‘We are trying to bring awareness to people who are able to raise their voices for the cause without having to leave their seat.

‘Freedom Generation is always available for awareness talks and training, and there is no cost involved,’ said Pitout.

She can be contacted on 072 1255983.