A recent report from the Canadian Centre for Child Protection (C3P) has shed light on the increasing risks faced by young people online. The data, covering the period from June 2022 to December 2025, reveals a concerning trend of 127 reported cases of extreme violence on the internet, with a significant portion involving children. Shockingly, 75 of the victims were children, with the youngest being just 11 years old, and a majority of them were girls.
The report exposes disturbing instances of aggressive tactics, coercion, blackmail, and doxing targeting these vulnerable individuals. Tragically, these online threats have real-life consequences, as illustrated by the heartbreaking story of Carol Todd, whose daughter Amanda took her own life in 2012 after being harassed and blackmailed online.
Todd emphasizes the importance of understanding the capabilities and limitations of artificial intelligence (AI) in online settings, highlighting how easily images can be manipulated to harm individuals. She advocates for increased education and awareness in schools, communities, and families to empower young people to navigate the digital landscape safely.
The mental health toll on victims of online victimization, particularly children and teens, is profound and long-lasting, underscoring the urgent need for support and intervention. Todd stresses the importance of fostering open conversations and reducing the stigma associated with seeking help for online abuse.
It’s crucial to remember that the reported cases may only scratch the surface of the problem, with many incidents potentially going unreported. C3P has taken action by collaborating with law enforcement and online platforms to address these alarming trends and protect vulnerable individuals in the digital realm.