Online sexual violence against children is on the rise in Finland, with police warning that an increasing number of cases now begin through social media.
According to police statistics, most child sexual abuse cases reported so far this year either occurred online or began with contact made over the internet. This also includes cases where children were allegedly offered money or other compensation in exchange for sexual acts.
The number of reported child sexual offences has nearly doubled in recent years. Police recorded around 800 cases of child sexual abuse in 2023, rising to more than 1,500 last year.
Authorities say offenders are increasingly targeting younger children online. Research by the Finnish organisation Protect Children found that online sexual abuse typically begins when victims are around 10 years old.
A separate survey last year by Save the Children Finland found that more than one in four children aged 11 to 17 had received a sexual message during the past year, while 15 percent said they had sent one themselves.
The survey also found that one in three children had been contacted online by an adult or someone at least five years older than them. Of those children, around two-thirds said the contact led to some form of sexual violence.
Police stress that adults have no legitimate reason to privately contact children they do not know through social media or other online platforms.
Authorities are urging parents to talk openly with children about their online activity, encourage them to report uncomfortable interactions and remind them that they can always ask a trusted adult for help.
Police also recommend that parents familiarise themselves with the apps and games their children use, as early conversations and vigilance are among the most effective ways to prevent online abuse.
The police remind anyone who suspects a child has been targeted online should report it immediately. Advice for children, parents and guardians is available on their website.
