What is online sexual exploitation?

Online sexual exploitation is the actual or attempted abuse of someone in a position of vulnerability by using power or trust to manipulate that person for sexual purposes, monetary gain and/or influence, and it can happen to anyone using the internet and digital technology. ​

How does online sexual exploitation start?

Sexual exploitation starts with luring and grooming. This is when someone that you may or may not know makes contact with you on social media or a dating app. At first, they seem nice and friendly, which is how they gain your trust.

How do exploiters find their targets?

Online sexual exploitation happens in a particular way. Much like the grooming process, it is calculated. Someone looking for their next victim may initially meet you on Instagram, TikTok, Omegle  or Snapchat.

So, why doesn’t it stop?

Online sexual exploitation is hard to spot, and the COVID-19 pandemic hasn’t made it any easier. The ongoing effects of COVID-19 and physical distancing have left many people feeling isolated, and some have turned to social media platforms and dating apps to find community and a sense of belonging.

Stages of online sexual exploitation

What makes predators especially dangerous is that they know how to target and manipulate the people they want to exploit. They do this by playing the role of boyfriend, best friend or caregiver.

What can you do to prevent online sexual exploitation?

Sexual exploitation is happening in our schools, communities and cities across Canada and online. Learn the signs and become an ally. Encourage youth, especially those who identify as male, to speak up and embrace their role as allies.

What do I do if someone tells me that they are or have been sexually exploited?

Whether you are a parent, guardian, caregiver, educator or a youth, there are some important things to consider when someone has confided in you that they are a survivor of online sexual exploitation.

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