Islamabad: Nearly 1.5 million internet-using children in Pakistan experienced at least one form of technology-facilitated sexual exploitation or abuse in a single year, according to a new UNICEF-backed study.
The figure represents nearly one in 16 internet-using children aged 12 to 17. The report by UNICEF Innocenti, ECPAT International and INTERPOL highlights growing risks including sexual extortion, blackmail, unwanted sexual images and conversations, and abuse involving artificial intelligence-generated content.
Many children remain silent
One of the most concerning findings is the extent of under-reporting. The study found that 71% of affected children did not tell anyone, with stigma, shame and fear of family or social consequences among the barriers to seeking help. None of the children surveyed reported their experiences through formal channels such as police, helplines or social workers.
The report also challenges the perception that online abuse is primarily carried out by strangers. Around 85% of perpetrators were known to the children, with abuse sometimes beginning through gaming, social media conversations, promises of gifts or attempts to build trust.
Digital safety needs stronger protection
Social media platforms accounted for 44% of reported instances in the research. UNICEF has called for stronger laws, greater accountability for online platforms, safety-by-design measures and child-friendly systems through which victims can confidentially seek assistance.
The agency stressed that responsibility for online safety cannot rest with children alone. Governments, technology companies, schools, families and communities all have a role in preventing exploitation and ensuring children can seek help without fear or blame.