Around 1.5 million internet-using children in Pakistan experienced at least one form of technology-facilitated sexual exploitation or abuse within a single year, according to a study published in September 2026. The research, titled Disrupting Harm in Pakistan, was conducted by UNICEF, ECPAT International and INTERPOL. It found that nearly one in 16 internet-using children aged 12 to 17 had experienced online sexual exploitation or abuse during the period examined.
The findings highlight the risks children may encounter while using social media and other digital platforms. According to the study, 85 per cent of reported incidents involved someone the child already knew, while social media accounted for 44 per cent of reported cases. The forms of abuse included unwanted sexual conversations or images, demands for intimate photographs, non-consensual sharing of images, and sexual threats or blackmail.
Artificial intelligence has added further concerns for child safety online. AI-generated sexual content and manipulated images can be used to exploit, intimidate or harass children. In a separate development, the United Nations Secretary-General’s Special Representative on Violence Against Children, Najat Maalla M’jid, urged governments to strengthen protections against emerging digital threats, including deepfakes, cyberbullying and online sexual exploitation.
The study also identified significant barriers to reporting abuse. More than half of the children who experienced technology-facilitated sexual exploitation or abuse did not tell anyone about their experiences. None of the children surveyed reported the incidents through formal channels such as police, helplines or social workers. Fear of humiliation, blame or punishment can discourage children from seeking help, while concerns about losing internet access may further prevent disclosure.
The report points to weaknesses in Pakistan’s child-protection and justice systems, including gaps in prevention, complaint investigations and support for affected children. It also highlights the importance of child-sensitive investigative procedures and properly trained professionals who can conduct forensic interviews without exposing children to unnecessary questioning or additional distress.
The findings underline the need for a coordinated response involving families, schools, law enforcement agencies, governments and digital platforms. Confidential reporting systems, accessible support services, effective investigations and public awareness can help children seek assistance safely. As digital technology and artificial intelligence continue to evolve, strengthening child-protection measures will be essential to ensuring that children can use the internet for learning and communication without facing exploitation or abuse.
Study Finds 1.5 Million Pakistani Children Experienced Online Sexual Abuse
