6 months Ago
Widespread Abuse, Few Reports
More than 200,000 minors probably are being subjected to serious online sexual abuse every year, according to research by victims support service Slachtofferhulp Nederland. The results come from a poll of more than 2,700 people nationwide.
Although many experience unsolicited sexual comments or imagery, the report points out that sites such as Snapchat, Instagram, and WhatsApp are where the worst of the abuse happens. But currently reporting is very low — only 4 percent of victims report to the police.
Shame, Fear, and Silence
The report, "The Invisible Reality Uncovered," speaks to a culture of silence. Over a third of the victims never disclose their abuse. Experts say the silence is driven by fear of judgment from family members and friends, shame and guilt-and many survivors simply suffer in silence.
Slachtofferhulp calls for more public awareness and better online protection to tackle the crisis.
