Surge in online predators who target children

SOARING numbers of children are being targeted by online sex predators.

Almost 1,600 cases were logged by Police Scotland last year, up by 200 in 12 months.

Today, the force is launching a campaign against perpetrators of online child sexual abuse.

But activists called on social media giants to take ‘proactive steps to tackle grooming on their sites’.

NSPCC head of child safety online Tony Stower said: ‘Social media provides a gateway for sex abusers to target children, using false identities, deception and blackmail, so it is extremely positive Police Scotland is focusing more resources into tackling this type of offending.

‘But it is imperative tech firms are also made to play their part.’

Police Scotland’s campaign, in partnership with Stop It Now! Scotland, warns people who groom children or involve them in sexual activity that they will be caught.

It will appear on social media channels and outdoor ads, featuring an emoji face with messages such as, ‘Get ready to kiss your freedom goodbye’, ‘Who would employ you?’ and ‘How will it affect your family?’.

Assistant Chief Constable Gillian MacDonald said: ‘Perpetrators of online child abuse are singleminded, targeting children using messaging apps. This includes grooming children for sexual purposes, indecently communicating with children and causing children to participate in sexual activity.

‘Offenders come from all walks of life, all age groups, and are predominantly men. Their motivations vary. Some may not see children as victims, they may not see themselves as abusers. Most don’t believe they will get caught.

‘As our figures show, the vast majority of those who engage with children for sexual purposes will be caught. They will face the conse- quences of their actions, their families will find out and they will face public exposure.’

Stuart Allardyce, national manager of Stop It Now! Scotland, said: ‘This campaign seeks to drive home the message online grooming of children and young people is illegal and causes huge harm.

‘There are no grey areas, whether it is sexual conversations with young people online, an attempt to solicit sexual images from them or trying to meet up – all of these things are illegal. Our work with men who have committed online offences tells us many knew what they were doing was wrong but didn’t know how to stop. Our message is clear – get help.’

Comment – Page 16

‘Most don’t believe they’ll get caught’