In today’s digital age, where children and adolescents spend a significant part of their lives online, Online Sexual Exploitation and Abuse (OSEA) has become an alarming and growing threat. Behind every screen and social media profile may lie a serious risk.

Protecting minors requires proactive measures — not only intervention after harm has occurred. Prevention is our most effective tool.

Why is Prevention Essential?

OSEA rarely begins with visible violence. It often relies on manipulation, grooming, emotional coercion, and deceit.

Educating children and adolescents about their rights and helping them recognize inappropriate behavior is the first and most important line of defense.

What Does Prevention Involve?

• Enhancing digital literacy
  Children and teens should learn how to protect their personal data, identify risky interactions, and navigate the digital world safely.

• Promoting self-esteem and personal boundaries
  Open conversations about relationships, bodies, consent, and mutual respect help young people feel empowered and informed.

• Encouraging trust in adults
  Young people must feel safe to speak up when they experience discomfort, fear, or online threats.

How to Recognize Warning Signs

Parents, educators, and professionals must be aware of potential indicators of online exploitation, including:

• Secretive or defensive behavior related to online activity

• Communication with unknown individuals who show unusual or excessive interest

• Sudden emotional changes, anxiety, or social withdrawal

• Feelings of shame, fear, or guilt without a clear explanation

Early detection can prevent long-term harm.

A Shared Responsibility

Prevention is not the responsibility of the child alone. It requires collective action:

• Parents and caregivers who listen with empathy and build open, non-judgmental relationships

• Teachers who integrate digital safety and comprehensive sexuality education into school programs

• Youth-centered support services that are accessible, responsive, and equipped to act swiftly

Most importantly, it requires a society that chooses awareness over silence — one that takes action through education, empathy, and collaboration.

A Practical Tool: The BE AWARE Project

To support prevention efforts, the European project BE AWARE has created tools and resources to protect minors from online sexual exploitation and abuse:

• BE AWARE Mobile App
  Offers interactive learning scenarios, safety guidance, and access to support
  https://app.beawareproject.eu

• BE AWARE Educational Toolkit
  Designed for parents, educators, and child protection professionals
  https://athena.ied.eu/local/staticpage/view.php?page=be-aware

The First Step is Awareness

Prevention starts with education. It grows through trust. It succeeds with action.

Learn. Speak up. Protect.