Analysts from the Internet Watch Foundation (IWF) say they have taken more action against more child sexual abuse reports in the last year than ever before in the organisation’s 30-year history.
The IWF – based in Chivers Way, Histon – is the largest hotline in Europe dedicated to finding and removing child sexual abuse material from the internet, and 2026 marks the 30th anniversary of its operations.
Last year also saw the IWF, a registered charity, at the forefront of research into the evolving threat from Artificial Intelligence (AI) abuse, with recently released data showing photo-realistic AI material at “dangerous” levels.
Smart tech, safe choices
The IWF, which recently announced a renewal of its partnership with UK online safety regulator, Ofcom, is at the forefront of activities for Safer Internet Day 2026 which takes place on 10 February.
This year’s focus will be around the theme ‘Smart tech, safe choices – Exploring the safe and responsible use of AI’.
IWF analysts – who took action to remove 312,030 reports containing child sexual abuse material last year alone – believe offenders are using AI technologies in increasingly large numbers as the sophistication of AI video tools improves.
Kerry Smith, Chief Executive of the IWF, said: “Our analysts work tirelessly to get this imagery removed to give victims some hope. But now AI has moved on to such an extent, criminals essentially can have their own child sexual abuse machines to make whatever they want to see.
“Governments around the world must ensure AI companies embed safety by design principles from the very beginning. It is unacceptable that technology is released which allows criminals to create this content.”
To combat the threat, the charity offers guidance for professionals and families to empower young people to use AI safely and responsibly and, helps educate young people about how to protect themselves and others from scams and abuse, as well as signposting what support is available to them.
For more information visit here. Safer Internet Day 2026 takes place on 10 February.
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