Around 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 recent UNICEF-backed study.
The findings are based on research involving children aged 12 to 17. UNICEF said the figure represents nearly one in 16 internet-using children in this age group. The study examined how children are targeted online and the barriers that prevent many victims from seeking help.
The abuse can begin through seemingly ordinary online interactions. Children may be approached through social media, online games or messaging platforms. Perpetrators can gradually build trust before asking for private images, making inappropriate requests or using threats and blackmail.
The report found that in 85 per cent of reported incidents, the perpetrator was someone the child already knew. This challenges the common perception that online abuse mainly involves unknown strangers. Social media platforms accounted for 44 per cent of reported incidents in the research.
Sexual extortion and blackmail were among the risks identified in the study. The research also highlighted the growing use of artificial intelligence to create fake sexual images or videos involving children.
A major concern is that many victims do not report what happened to them. UNICEF said more than half of children who experienced technology-facilitated sexual exploitation or abuse did not tell anyone. None of the children surveyed reported their experiences through formal channels such as police, helplines or social workers. Fear, stigma, victim-blaming and concerns about family reactions were identified as major barriers.
The study also found that online abuse can have serious consequences for children’s wellbeing. UNICEF has called for stronger protection systems, safer digital platforms and confidential ways for children to seek assistance.
Pakistan has legal provisions dealing with technology-related offences against children, but the UNICEF research identified gaps in the existing framework and its implementation. The report recommends stronger coordination between government agencies, law enforcement, justice institutions, social services, schools, families and technology companies.
The findings come as internet access continues to expand among Pakistani children. UNICEF says protecting young users cannot depend only on children avoiding online risks. Greater responsibility is also required from families, institutions and digital platforms to prevent abuse and ensure that victims can safely report incidents and receive support.
