The National Police Agency of Japan reported a 10.8% decline in child victims of social media-linked crimes, totaling 1,486 cases. This marks the lowest number in 10 years. Key areas of concern include child pornography and nonconsensual acts, particularly influenced by recent legal changes. Instagram emerged as the most common platform for such incidents.
The National Police Agency of Japan reported a significant decrease in the number of children under 18 victimized by crimes linked to social media, revealing a 10.8% drop from the previous year to 1,486 incidents, marking the lowest figure recorded over the past decade. This reduction has been consistently noted for five consecutive years.
Among these victims, 414 children fell prey to child pornography incidents, which involve coercion to send sexually explicit photographs, a decline of 30.1% from prior reports. Additionally, the cases of nonconsensual sexual intercourse surged to 287, while incidents of nonconsensual indecency stood at 102, both reflecting a threefold increase likely influenced by the revised Penal Code enacted in July 2023.
Crime statistics revealed that Instagram led as the most common platform for such offenses, with 461 victims, followed by 398 on X (formerly Twitter) and 82 on TikTok. Furthermore, 98 children experienced victimization through online gaming, many of which stemmed from friendships formed within the gaming environment, including communications via in-game voice chat.
The percentage of children victimized through online games has notably risen in recent years, reaching 6.6% of all child victims in the past year, which represents a considerable increase from 3.1% in 2019. This trend indicates the growing vulnerability of children in digital spaces.
In summary, Japan has experienced a remarkable decline in social media-linked crimes against children, attributed to various preventive measures. However, issues related to child pornography and nonconsensual acts reflect ongoing challenges that necessitate continued public education and legal reforms. The rise of victimization through online gaming urges the need for enhanced vigilance among parents and guardians as social platforms evolve.
Original Source: japannews.yomiuri.co.jp
