Around 1.5 million internet-using children in Pakistan experienced technology-facilitated sexual exploitation or abuse within a single year, raising serious concerns about child safety in the digital environment, according to a new study published by UNICEF, ECPAT International and INTERPOL.
The research, titled *Disrupting Harm in Pakistan*, found that nearly one in 16 internet-using children aged 12 to 17 experienced at least one form of online sexual abuse or exploitation. The study was published in September 2026 and highlighted significant gaps in prevention, reporting and victim support.
According to the findings, approximately 85 per cent of reported incidents involved perpetrators whom children already knew. Social media accounted for 44 per cent of reported cases, making it the most commonly identified digital setting for abuse.
The reported offences included unwanted sexual images or conversations, demands for intimate photographs, unauthorised sharing of children’s images, sexual threats and blackmail.
Meanwhile, the United Nations has warned that artificial intelligence is creating additional risks through digitally manipulated sexual images, deepfakes, cyberbullying and the recruitment of children into criminal activities.
UN Special Representative on Violence Against Children Najat Maalla M’jid also highlighted the vulnerability of children affected by poverty, conflict and displacement.
The study found that more than half of affected children did not disclose their experiences to anyone. None of the children surveyed reported incidents through formal channels, including police, helplines or social workers.
Fear, shame, social stigma and concerns about family reactions often prevented victims from seeking assistance.
The research also identified weaknesses in Pakistan’s legal and investigative systems. Existing legislation does not systematically require specially trained professionals to conduct forensic interviews with child victims, potentially exposing them to further trauma.
Experts have stressed the need for confidential reporting mechanisms, trained investigators, stronger legal safeguards and accessible psychological support.
The findings underscore the urgent need for coordinated action by government institutions, technology companies, schools and families to protect children from online exploitation.
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