A record number of web pages hosting child sexual abuse imagery were uncovered in 2024, prompting urgent calls for stronger online safety measures and broader support for platforms in tackling such abhorrent content.
The stark figures come from the Internet Watch Foundation (IWF), a leading UK-based organisation that locates and facilitates the removal of child sexual abuse material online. According to its annual report, a staggering 291,273 reports of such material were confirmed this year – the highest ever recorded in its history.
The IWF’s findings lay bare the scale of the threat posed to under-18s in the digital age. It warns that children are facing an intensifying crisis of sexual exploitation online, with malicious actors weaponising technology in increasingly sophisticated ways. Emerging threats such as AI-generated abuse material, sextortion schemes, and the non-consensual sharing of intimate images are reportedly fuelling the surge.
In response, the IWF has launched a powerful new tool called Image Intercept, which will be offered free of charge to smaller platforms. Designed to help identify and block known criminal content, the tool can detect images flagged in the IWF’s vast database of more than 2.8 million digitally hashed files.
This initiative, the IWF says, will extend 24-hour protection across the internet’s less resourced corners – a crucial step in helping smaller sites comply with the UK’s new Online Safety Act, which came into force last month. The Act places legal obligations on online platforms to protect users and prevent the dissemination of harmful material, with Ofcom tasked with overseeing its enforcement.
Derek Ray-Hill, the IWF’s interim chief executive, said the tool is a direct response to the growing complexity of threats facing children online.
“Young people are facing rising threats online where they risk sexual exploitation, and where images and videos of that exploitation can spread like wildfire,” he said.
“Many well-intentioned and responsible platforms do not have the resources to protect themselves against bad actors. That’s why we’re stepping in with a hash checking tool that’s free to use and essential to online safety. Together, we can present a stone wall to those seeking to share such vile material.”
The IWF confirmed that the creation of Image Intercept was made possible thanks to funding from the Home Office.
Technology Secretary Peter Kyle praised the initiative and the IWF’s ongoing work:
“Visiting the IWF was one of the most shocking and moving experiences I’ve had in office. I saw how these criminals operate – often beginning in what should be a safe place for any child: their bedroom.
“The rise in AI-generated abuse and sextortion shows how quickly the threat is evolving. But I was also inspired by the IWF’s dedication. Image Intercept is a game-changer, and our government will continue to support efforts to make the internet a safer place for children.”
Further highlighting the urgency of the issue, the IWF revealed that in 97% of cases where the sex of the victim was known, the abuse depicted girls – a sharp increase from 2023. The gendered nature of the abuse has led to growing concern over online misogyny and targeted sexual violence.
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Jess Phillips, Minister for Safeguarding and Violence Against Women and Girls, described the findings as “deeply disturbing”.
“This report underlines the need to tackle online child abuse with the full weight of government and industry cooperation. Image Intercept will be vital in preventing further harm to victims. But platforms must also be held accountable. If they are to be safe spaces, they must invest in protective technologies and act against predators.”
She added: “This government is taking further steps – those who possess AI tools built to create abusive content or who share manuals on how to do so will face criminal prosecution. The Online Safety Act is just the start. We will go further, if necessary, to protect our children.”
With threats growing and technology being manipulated for horrific purposes, the IWF’s new safety tool signals a vital move in the battle to shield young people from online exploitation.
