Online child sexual exploitation in Alberta could reach record in 2024 [Video]

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.

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 …