The alarming rise of online predators targeting children’s webcams has been revealed in a recent study conducted by cybersecurity researchers. With a tenfold increase in webcam-related sexual abuse imagery since 2019, the dangers faced by young internet users have become a major concern.

Unmasking online predators

To understand the methods used by these predators, researchers posed as children and created chatbots designed as 13-year-old girls. Deployed in various chatrooms, these chatbots interacted with users who identified as over 18 years old.

A total of 953 conversations were logged, revealing that most interactions were sexually explicit, with a focus on webcams. Predators either offered payment or made promises of love and future relationships in exchange for videos. Additionally, 39% of the conversations included unsolicited links, which, when investigated, led to malware, phishing sites, or video conferencing platforms like Whereby.

Exploiting video conferencing platforms

Further analysis showed that predators could exploit features in Whereby to watch and record children without their active or informed consent. By persuading victims to visit seemingly innocuous sites, predators can gain control of a child’s camera, violating their privacy and facilitating online sexual abuse.

To protect children from online predators, parents are advised to cover webcams, monitor their child’s internet activity, and teach them about online stranger danger. By raising awareness and taking necessary precautions, a safer cyberspace can be created for young internet users.