What research reveals about offender behaviour in the online sexual exploitation of children

Understanding the motivations of people who seek out, produce or encourage the creation of child sexual abuse material (CSAM) is a key aspect in informing our methods and practices in the CSE response ecosystem. The ever-evolving nature of this heinous crime necessitates an up-to-date response, as the ways that offenders use technology to abuse children is constantly changing.

Research into the online sexual exploitation of children (OSEC) is a vital piece of the puzzle in detecting and identifying perpetrators of child sexual abuse. Our March 2023 event focused on understanding the perpetrator behaviours and tactics that are essential to those working to detect, prosecute and prevent this crime. We were joined by Dr Sarah Napier from the Australian Institute of Criminology, who presented the findings of her extensive research into offender behaviour, and the emerging trends in the area.

View the recording below.