Without appropriate guidance or supervision, children and young people may be exposed to harmful content, individuals, or platforms that increase their risk of exploitation

Perpetrators increasingly use social media, gaming platforms, and messaging apps to identify, befriend, and manipulate children and young people who are vulnerable to exploitation.

Activities such as sharing personal information or exchanging images, interacting with strangers, or participating in unsafe online communities can increase susceptibility to exploitation.

Children and young people who lack understanding of online safety may be less able to recognise manipulation or protect themselves.

Children and young people who feel disconnected offline may turn to online spaces for connection, making them more vulnerable to exploiters who offer attention or affirmation.