2024 could see record number of online child sexual exploitation cases in Alberta

Social media apps. (File photo)

The number of reported online child sexual exploitation cases in Alberta may reach a record before the end of 2024.

More than 5,000 such reports have been made to the Alberta Law Enforcement Response Teams' (ALERT) internet child exploitation (ICE) unit this year.

The number "is in the process of surpassing" the previous annual high set in 2023, ALERT said in a Wednesday news release.

Intakes, charges, and people charged are also up over last year.

	#, 2023	#, 2024	Year-to-date change
Intakes	3,813	5,177	35%
Charges laid	446	587	31%
People charged	113	128	13%

A similar trend has been observed across the globe, according to ALERT.

“The reported instances of online child sexual exploitation is alarming, however, given the volume of incoming cases, we can only investigate the most severe instances. Public awareness on the proliferation of this crime is vital to ensure children are prepared for the risks they face while online," Acting Insp. Jon Morrison said.

"We see it too often where parents are completely unaware that this is happening in their home. These are important conversations for parents and guardians to have with any child that is online."

ALERT says an adult who is told of abuse, neglect or exploitation by a minor should:

• stay calm and react without shock, disbelief, anger, judgement or fear;
• let the child use their own words to tell their story;
• listen carefully;
• refrain from asking questions;
• reassure them what happened is not their fault; and
• acknowledge how they are feeling.

More information for families is available online.