Abstract:
In this first chapter, this report starts by outlining the methodological approach taken and its limitations
and familiarizing the reader with the main terminology used in the report. The second chapter outlines
the main types and sources of online sexual abuse of children, focusing predominantly on the creation
of CSAM. Our aim is to compile in one place a comprehensive picture of the main formats and sources of
CSA in the face of the diversity and variability of the sources and terms used sporadically in the
literature. In the third chapter, the report outlines existing countermeasures implemented by law
enforcement, as well as the reported trends and pitfalls that law enforcement encounters in this area.
The final, fourth chapter covers structural and legal challenges in the prevention of CSAM, and we
highlight the relevant aspects and drawbacks identified by various stakeholders. Our explanations in the
fourth chapter are based on insights from civil society groups’, firms’ and legislators’ reports about the
challenges they meet and the trade-offs they make. Throughout the report, we provide a balanced,
independent assessment and recommendations on the potential aspects to consider in designing future
policies to make children safe in online environments