Surfshark: 7 children per day fall prey to online exploitation

A recent study conducted by cybersecurity company Surfshark based on the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) Internet Crime Reports (2015-2022) has highlighted some alarming data concerning cybercrime against children. The statistics reveal that there has been a 20% increase in cybercrime targeting children in 2022, with an average of seven minors being exposed to online exploitation every single day.

The numbers show that in this decade alone, almost 8,000 children were victims of cybercrime, with over half of these incidents occurring in the last three years. These malicious activities, including cyberbullying and phishing, have become increasingly prevalent in today’s digital age.

In 2022, cybercrime against children has cost parents an average of $223, which is a $131 increase from 2021. From 2015 to 2022, the FBI recorded 14.5k child cybercrime victims, resulting in a total financial loss of 2.9 million dollars. However, there is some cause for hope, as the average cost per victim has decreased from its peak of $743 in 2019, indicating that parents are becoming more aware of the dangers.

The numbers in the report call for action to protect children, reporting any suspicious activity directly to online platforms and local authorities to ensure the safety and well-being of minors.