UNICEF survey finds that approximately one in five young people reported being targeted by online sexual abuse. The agency’s poll, conducted with roughly 21,000 respondents, identified a notable share of youths who said they experienced unwanted sexual approaches or exploitative contact in digital spaces, signaling a growing protection challenge for children and adolescents online.
The data collected covered a large sample of young people and focused on their experiences interacting in social media, messaging apps and other online environments. While the survey did not provide a complete map of every form of harm, its scale offers a rare, comparative look at how widespread targeting has become among minors using connected platforms. The findings add to broader international concern about the online risks facing youth as digital engagement rises.
Implications for policy are significant: the results point to gaps in prevention, reporting and support systems for victims. Stronger safeguards on platforms, clearer reporting mechanisms, improved moderation and dedicated support services for affected children are cited as priorities by experts and child protection advocates. The survey underscores the need for coordinated action by technology companies, educators, parents and policymakers to reduce exposure and respond more effectively when abuse occurs.
Next steps should include sustained monitoring, targeted prevention programmes and improved access to help for those affected. Continued research is necessary to track changes over time and to evaluate which interventions work best. The survey’s findings reinforce a wider imperative to protect children in digital spaces and to ensure that measures to prevent abuse keep pace with how young people use the internet.