Understanding and Preventing Online Child Pornography

Online child pornography involves the exploitation of minors (below 18 years) in sexually explicit acts through images or videos shared on the internet. Predators on social media platforms, gaming sites, and chat rooms lure children into situations that lead to sexual abuse and exploitation.

Why Should We Be Concerned?

The impact on victims is profound, resulting in severe mental and physical trauma. Victims often suffer from depression, isolation, and may turn to substance abuse. Cybercriminals exploit these vulnerable minors, making them perform explicit sexual acts, which are then posted and circulated online. Disturbingly, India has seen a significant number of child pornography uploads, with Delhi leading the statistics, followed by Maharashtra, Gujarat, Uttar Pradesh, and West Bengal.

Warning Signs

• Feelings of guilt, shame, or wrongdoing in the child
• Signs of extreme physical pain or emotional disturbance
• Persistent sadness, distress, isolation, or depression

Measures to Safeguard Against Such Offences

Both parents and children must be vigilant and informed about online child pornography:

1. Cautious Online Interactions: Verify the identity of online contacts through mutual friends.
2. Watch for Red Flags: Be wary of strangers who share identical interests or push for personal meetings.
3. Avoid Personal Meetings: Never agree to meet an online stranger without informing parents.
4. Digital Education: Teach children secure digital practices and the dangers of online strangers.
5. Report Discomfort: If something feels wrong, cut off contact, inform parents, and report on cybercrime.gov.in.
6. Parental Awareness: Parents should be notified if children encounter anything uncomfortable online.
7. Social Media Reporting: Report inappropriate posts to platform administrators and contact helpline 1098.
8. Enable Security Features: Utilize privacy settings on social media platforms for added protection.
   • Facebook Privacy Settings
   • Twitter Privacy Settings
   • Instagram Privacy Settings

Actions to Take If Affected by Online Child Pornography

1. Online Reporting: Register a complaint on cybercrime.gov.in, anonymously if preferred.
2. Police Reporting: File a complaint at the nearest cybercrime police station.

Legal Recourse

Online child pornography is a serious, non-bailable offense in India. It attracts severe punishments under various laws:

• Section 293 of IPC, 1860: Distribution of obscene material to minors.
• Section 67B of the IT Act, 2008: Addresses child pornography.
• Section 14 of POCSO Act, 2012: Pertains to child sexual offenses.

These sections can lead to imprisonment for up to 10 years and substantial fines.