Paedophiles are starting to use virtual reality headsets to view child abuse images, data shows

Paedophiles are starting to use virtual reality headsets to view child abuse images, according to police data.Use of this technology was recorded in eight cases in 2021/22 – the first time this technology has been specifically mentioned in crime reports. During that period, police recorded 30,925 offences involving obscene images of children – the highest number logged by forces in England and Wales.Of these, a social media or gaming site was recorded in 9,888 cases – including Snapchat 4,293 times, Facebook 1,361, Instagram 1,363 and WhatsApp 547.NSPCC, which collated the data, is calling for a number of amendments to the Online Safety Bill to prevent more children becoming exposed to abuse. Sir Peter Wanless, chief executive of the NSPCC, said: “These new figures are incredibly alarming but reflect just the tip of the iceberg of what children are experiencing online.”We hear from young people who feel powerless and let down as online sexual abuse risks becoming normalised for a generation of children. “By creating a child safety advocate that stands up for children and families the government can ensure the Online Safety Bill systemically prevents abuse.”Read more:NSPCC’s Childline reports 45% rise in number of boys suffering online sexual abuseChild abuse
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