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Whether you’re just learning about the spread of child sexual abuse material (CSAM), are an expert in the field, or are looking for the latest data, Thorn has resources for everyone.
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Talk to Thorn
Need more information or want to speak with one of our experts? We’re here to help. Reach us directly at pr@wearethorn.org or learn more from our FAQs.
My child is being blackmailed, threatened, or sextorted online.
Sextortion is when someone blackmails or threatens to expose a sexual image of a person in order to make that person do something they don’t want to do, like send more photos or send money. If you or your child is experiencing this, know that you are not alone and there is hope to get to the other side. Get help here. Learn more about sextortion here.
Additional resources are available to help support you and your child through this:
- Make a report to NCMEC’s CyberTipline at report.cybertip.org
- Reach out to NCMEC for support at gethelp@ncmec.org or 1-800-THE-LOST
- Stop Sextortion: Tips for Caregivers
- Video: Online Blackmail
- Text “THORN” to 741741 to speak with a trained counselor
How do I report possible child sexual abuse material?
All information regarding possible child sexual exploitation should be reported to the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC) by calling 1-800-THE-LOST (843-5678) or submitting through their CyberTipline.
Note: Please do not share or distribute child sexual abuse material (CSAM), even in an attempt to report it. Not only is it illegal, but it spreads the content across the internet, further victimizing the child and making removal more difficult.
My child is being pressured to share explicit photos with someone online.
We’re sorry you and your child are going through this. If the person pressuring your child to share nudes is a stranger, it’s critical to support your child in following these steps:
- Do not share any images.
- Save all communication between your child and the person requesting the imagery.
- Block the person, but do not delete your child’s profile or messages.
- Report solicitation to the platform.
- Make a report to NCMEC’s CyberTipline at report.cybertip.org.
If the person is a friend or romantic partner, it may be an unhealthy relationship and early signs of grooming or sextortion. Start by creating a safe space for trusted conversations with your child and encourage them not to participate in this behavior. You can find resources for helping your child navigate these risky situations and mitigate potential abuse here.
My child’s nude images were leaked.
The best thing you can do for your child right now is be there for them unconditionally and show them there is hope to get to the other side. Chances are, your child is already feeling the gravity of the situation and you’re best positioned to provide them with care and a safe space. NCMEC has created a guide for reporting and removing content from social media platforms here.