Safe Internet Coalition campaign warns children of dangers of online sexual abuse

BANGKOK, 7 November 2023 – UNICEF, in cooperation with Ministry of Social Development and Human Security (MSDHS) and Thailand Safe Internet Coalition (TSIC) today launched #CautionFirst campaign urging children and adolescents to “think twice” before sharing photos, videos and personal information online. The campaign aims to protect children from online sexual exploitation and abuse after studies show that an alarming number of children in Thailand have become victims of online abuse.

According to the Disrupting Harm report released in 2022 by UNICEF ECPAT and INTERPOL, around 400,000 children aged 12-17 years in Thailand – almost 1 in 10 – were victims of online sexual abuse and exploitation in 2021. These incidents mostly happened on social media channels, and often involved sexual images and videos of children being shared, blackmailing, or the forcing of children to engage in sexual activities.

“This campaign aims to address the alarming trend of online child sexual extortion. That’s why everyone has to play a crucial role in ensuring the protection of children online and we must do so together,” said Varawut Silpa-Acha, Minister of Social Development and Human Security. “MSDHS is also promoting safe online behaviors among children. The child protection services, including response to the report of child abuse and neglect, is also strengthened in order to ensure that children have access to quality and timely services they need.” 

By Goongnang Suksawat