A two-year investigation by the Guardian suggests that the tech giant Meta is struggling to prevent criminals from using its platforms to buy and sell children for sex.
Investigation findings
The investigation, conducted by Katie McQue and Mei-Ling McNamara, was published in 2023 and has been revisited as part of the Guardian's long read archive series, with new introductions from the authors.
The report highlights ongoing concerns about child sexual abuse, exploitation and trafficking on Facebook and Instagram.
Support and resources
The article includes a content warning for descriptions of child sexual abuse and exploitation. It also lists helplines for those affected: in the US, the Childhelp abuse hotline at 800-422-4453; in the UK, the NSPCC at 0800 1111 for children and 0808 800 5000 for adults, plus Napac at 0808 801 0331 for adult survivors; in Australia, Kids Helpline at 1800 55 1800, Bravehearts at 1800 272 831, and Blue Knot Foundation at 1300 657 380 for adult survivors. Additional help is available through Child Helplines International.
