New Childline, UNICEF and Irish research reveals where children disclose online sexual abuse, why private messaging matters, and what parents can do to protect them.
A major 2026 investigation reveals child safety gaps in Roblox, Fortnite, Minecraft and Steam. What parents need to know about grooming and gaming
Roblox submitted 65,381 reports of suspected child sexual exploitation in 2025. A US investigation also uncovered serious shortcomings in identifying victims and reporting organised abuse. We examine the evidence, the psychology of online grooming and what Irish parents can do to protect their children.
Childline data shows Snapchat, TikTok and Instagram were the platforms children named most often in counselling about online sexual abuse last year. Experts say grooming is becoming quicker and easier, including for children as young as five. Free official reporting routes and calm, non-blaming conversations at home remain the most practical protections while platform design still leaves gaps.
The Com is a global online ecosystem linked to grooming, exploitation, violence and coercion. This article examines how children can become victims and sometimes perpetrators, the cyberpsychology behind belonging and status, warning signs for families, and what parents, schools and platforms need to understand.
A 70% Increase in online grooming has been attributed to Facebook and Instagram, by the NSPCC. The UK children’s charity revealed the shocking figures in a recent report. The research was compiled from the results of a Freedom of Information request to 42 polices forces across the country.
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