Sextortion is a topic we have spoken about before and something that is discussed in my visits to schools around Australia. Earlier this month, I had the privilege of sharing my insights with SBS on Meta’s new initiative to combat sextortion, particularly among minors, across their platforms. This pressing issue has become a significant concern not just overseas but on Australian shores. According to the eSafety Commission there have been almost 10,000 image based abuse reports in the last year and is of great concern.
Sextortion, a form of blackmail where individuals are coerced into providing explicit images or videos under the threat of those materials being shared publicly, has seen an alarming rise, especially among teenagers and young adults. It relies on the fear and vulnerability of its victims, leading, in the worst cases, to severe emotional distress and even suicide.
Meta’s approach involves introducing innovative tools designed to prevent and address instances of sextortion. These tools are engineered to offer support and resources to individuals who may be at risk or are currently facing such threats. As an Internet Safety Expert, understanding the depth and efficiency of these tools is crucial. How these measures align with the broader goal of enhancing online safety and whether they address the core issues require thorough evaluation.
As someone deeply invested in the wellbeing of children and the broader community online, I believe it is through, ongoing dialogue and collaboration between tech companies, law enforcement, child protection agencies and the eSafety Commission and their collective action, to implement smart, effective solutions that we can hope to tackle the complex challenges of sextortion and other forms of online abuse. But also provide the right education to families and carers so that they can monitor the online habits of their children and also, should their child fall victim, recognise the signs of online abuse.
The initiative by Meta is a commendable step forward in the fight against online harassment and exploitation. However, as we delve into the effectiveness of these tools, it’s essential to consider the complexities of sextortion. The phenomenon is not only about technology but also about human behaviour and the exploitation of power dynamics. Therefore, while Meta’s efforts are a significant stride in the right direction, ongoing evaluation and adaptation of these tools will be key to their success.
For more detailed insights, you can listen to my full commentary on SBS’s recent podcast episode, visit this link.
