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[FCE] Criminal gangs profiting as child sexual abuse websites double, experts say

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The Internet Watch Foundation (IWF) recently released a troubling report detailing a sharp increase in online criminal activity. The findings suggest that the number of commercial websites hosting illegal content related to child exploitation has more than doubled within a single year. In 2025, over 15,000 such sites were discovered, marking a 114 percent rise from the 7,000 recorded in 2024.

Contrary to popular belief, these materials are not hidden away in obscure parts of the internet. Instead, experts warn that they are frequently found on major social media platforms. By using specific search terms, users can often access this content in as few as two clicks. This ease of access indicates that existing safety measures are failing to prevent criminals from using public platforms as a base for their activities.

The report also examines the financial structures supporting these crimes. Criminal organisations are generating significant profits through various payment methods, including cryptocurrency and standard bank transfers. Many of these operations function like a pyramid scheme, where revenue is made through affiliate links and advertising. When a user clicks a link, both the individual who shared the content and the platform itself may benefit financially. Subscriptions or one-time fees for this material typically range from $12 to $120, depending on the nature of the content.

Another growing concern is the rise of ‘sextortion,’ a crime where individuals are threatened with the release of private images unless they meet certain demands. Cases involving victims under the age of 18 have reportedly surged by 127 percent. This dramatic increase has led to calls for tech companies and financial institutions to adopt more proactive detection tools.

Advocates argue that if the technology to identify and block such abuse exists, it is the responsibility of these corporations to implement it. As the digital landscape expands, the debate over how much responsibility social media companies should take for their content continues to intensify.

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1. What does the IWF report reveal about the current state of illegal websites?

  • A. The number of sites has stayed the same since 2024.
  • B. The growth rate of these sites is finally slowing down.
  • C. There has been a 114 percent increase in these sites over a year.
  • D. Most sites have moved exclusively to the dark corners of the web.

2. Why is the accessibility of illegal content considered a major problem?

  • A. Because it can be found very quickly on mainstream platforms.
  • B. Because it can only be accessed by professional hackers.
  • C. Because search engines have successfully blocked all relevant terms.
  • D. Because it requires a very expensive subscription to view even basic content.

3. According to the text, how do criminal groups generate revenue from this content?

  • A. By only accepting payments through traditional bank transfers.
  • B. Through a business model involving affiliate links and advertising.
  • C. By charging a flat rate of $120 for all types of material.
  • D. By selling their detection technology to social media companies.

4. What does the report say about ‘sextortion’ involving minors?

  • A. It is less common than it was in the previous year.
  • B. It primarily affects adults over the age of 18.
  • C. Reports of this crime have risen by 127 percent.
  • D. It is being successfully prevented by current safety measures.

5. What is the main argument regarding the responsibility of tech companies?

  • A. They should not be held responsible for what users post on their sites.
  • B. They must use available technology to proactively prevent criminal abuse.
  • C. They should focus on increasing their advertising revenue to fund safety.
  • D. They have already implemented all possible measures to secure their platforms.