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Vulnerabilities

Study to investigate sexual messaging between children and adults

A study has been commissioned to examine sexual communication between children and adults on direct messaging platforms, and how it can lead to exploitation.

DKCISSP News DeskBBC News28 Oct 2026, 11:38 am1 min read
Study to investigate sexual messaging between children and adults
Image courtesy of BBC News. Original report
DKCISSP REPORT

A study has been commissioned to examine sexual communication between children and adults on direct messaging platforms, and how it can lead to exploitation.

Anglia Ruskin University (ARU) has been commissioned to carry out the research project by the National Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Children (NSPCC).

Researchers will conduct an anonymous online survey involving about 1,500 young people aged 12-18 across UK secondary schools.

The study will support the NSPCC's ongoing advocacy work with Ofcom and the government to help strengthen protections for children online.

What happened

A study has been commissioned to examine sexual communication between children and adults on direct messaging platforms, and how it can lead to exploitation.

Anglia Ruskin University (ARU) has been commissioned to carry out the research project by the National Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Children (NSPCC).

Researchers will conduct an anonymous online survey involving about 1,500 young people aged 12-18 across UK secondary schools.

Who is affected

The study will support the NSPCC's ongoing advocacy work with Ofcom and the government to help strengthen protections for children online.

Attribution

BBC News: A study has been commissioned to examine sexual communication between children and adults on direct messaging platforms, and how it can lead to exploitation.

What to watch next

Watch for additional victim details, indicators of compromise and follow-on exploitation reports.

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