According to police data shared with the children’s charity NSPCC, Snapchat is currently the most widely used platform for online grooming in the UK, contributing to nearly half of the recorded cases in 2023-2024. During this period, over 7,000 cases of “Sexual Communication with a Child” were reported, the highest number since this offense was introduced.
Becky Riggs, the National Police Chief’s Council lead for child protection, called the data “shocking” and emphasized the need for tech companies to take responsibility for creating safer online spaces for children. The NSPCC echoed this, stating society is “still waiting for tech companies to make their platforms safe for children.”
Snapchat stated it has a “zero tolerance” policy for the sexual exploitation of minors and has implemented additional safety measures for young users and their parents. However, Rani Govender, the NSPCC’s child safety online policy manager, noted that the design of Snapchat — with disappearing messages and notifications when a screenshot is taken — can hinder tracking incriminating behavior, leaving children vulnerable.
Jess Phillips, the minister for safeguarding, underscored that tech companies “have a responsibility to stop this vile abuse,” highlighting that under the new Online Safety Act, firms must address illegal content on their platforms or face penalties. From December, large tech companies will be required to publish risk assessments on illegal content, with Ofcom enforcing compliance to prevent online grooming and enhance children’s safety.
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