Livestreaming Technology and Online Child Sexual Exploitation and Abuse: A Scoping Review
Date
2023
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Trauma, Violence, & Abuse
Abstract
Livestreaming of child sexual abuse (LSCSA) is an established form of online child sexual exploitation and abuse (OCSEA).
However, only a limited body of research has examined this issue. The Covid-19 pandemic has accelerated internet use and
user knowledge of livestreaming services emphasizing the importance of understanding this crime. In this scoping review,
existing literature was brought together through an iterative search of eight databases containing peer-reviewed journal
articles, as well as grey literature. Records were eligible for inclusion if the primary focus was on livestream technology and
OCSEA, the child being defined as eighteen years or younger. Fourteen of the 2,218 records were selected. The data were
charted and divided into four categories: victims, offenders, legislation, and technology. Limited research, differences in
terminology, study design, and population inclusion criteria present a challenge to drawing general conclusions on the current
state of LSCSA. The records show that victims are predominantly female. The average livestream offender was found to be
older than the average online child sexual abuse offender. Therefore, it is unclear whether the findings are representative of
the global population of livestream offenders. Furthermore, there appears to be a gap in what the records show on platforms
and payment services used and current digital trends. The lack of a legal definition and privacy considerations pose a challenge
to investigation, detection, and prosecution. The available data allow some insights into a potentially much larger issue.
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Keywords
child sexual abuse material, online sexual exploitation, International Resources, Norway, technology, livestreaming child sexual abuse, scoping review
Citation
Drejer, C., Riegler, M. A., Halvorsen, P., Johnson, M. S., & Baugerud, G. A. (2023). Livestreaming Technology and Online Child Sexual Exploitation and Abuse: A Scoping Review. Trauma, Violence, & Abuse, 15248380221147564.