The Web is a wonderful and convenient tool since people use it to watch TV/films, work, shop and order food. Unfortunately, people also use it for iniquitous purposes, especially to commit sex crimes.
And because the Internet is so ubiquitous, anyone can be a victim of an online sex crime, particularly minors. About 1 out of 5 young people came across sexual images online, and 11 percent of them received requests to provide sexual images or participate in sexual acts.
Here are three examples of common Internet sex crimes.
Child Grooming/Exploitation
A child logs into a forum, chat room or social media platform and starts conversing with someone new. Their “friend” brings up innocent topics like favorite hobbies and extracurricular activities. The child even meets up with this person in public places to receive gifts like money or a new cell phone.
Later on, things take a turn for the worse when the predator demands sexual favors from the child and threatens to hurt them if they tell their parents about their “meetings.”
Recording someone without their consent in a private space
Someone slips a hidden camera in a room and films an individual dressing, bathing or relieving themselves. Then, they share the video on social media to either ogle at the target or mock their bodily imperfections.
Cyberstalking
Suppose a person has a coworker with whom they’re on an acquaintance basis. After arriving home from work, the individual receives an email from said coworker declaring their affection. Even after being politely rejected, the coworker becomes more persistent — and aggressive — by sending sexually explicit images and messages.
People who intentionally engage in Internet sex crimes should be prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law. However, some individuals face false accusations due to seeing explicit photos by accident and forgetting to delete them from their computers. If you’re currently dealing with a sex crime accusation, contact experienced legal assistance today. Remember, you are innocent until proven guilty.