"I Would Say Almost Every Single Case Has Some Sort of an Internet Connection": Service Providers Insights on Technology's Role in the Trajectories of Commercial Sexual Exploitation of Children

Background: The commercial sexual exploitation of children (CSEC) is an increasingly recognized and complex issue that encompasses diverse forms of abuse. With much of children’s social activity shifting to the internet and social media, technology is becoming a critical factor in the trajectories of CSEC victimization. Despite technology's broad impact, significant knowledge gaps remain about its role in the lifecycle of CSEC. This study aims to explore how technology is utilized in CSEC crimes from the perspectives of service providers and law enforcement. It specifically examines technology's facilitation, perpetration, and prosecution of CSEC, as well as its benefits and challenges in service provision for survivors.

Method: Data were collected from 62 service providers and 18 law enforcement professionals specializing in CSEC across 11 U.S. communities (3 rural, 3 urban, and 5 suburban). Participants were recruited via local law enforcement agencies (n=11) and snowball sampling (n=69), predominantly identifying as White (n=57; 82.6%). Their experience ranged from less than a year to over 20 years, with the majority (n=45; 56.25%) working 2-10 years in their current positions.

In-depth qualitative interviews were conducted using a semi-structured guide, each lasting about 45 minutes. Research rigor was maintained through an audit trail, expert feedback on interview guides, and detailed case notes. An open-coding approach was used to develop preliminary codes, with two team members independently reviewing each transcript. Coding discrepancies were resolved through consensus.

Findings: The study identified significant aspects of technology’s role in the grooming, perpetration, and prosecution of CSEC. First, technology is seen to broaden grooming opportunities, for instance, through social media platforms used to recruit children or to disseminate self-produced exploitative content. Second, technology modifies the nature of CSEC perpetration; various apps are instrumental in advertising, payment, and transportation, significantly impacting how CSEC crimes are committed. Finally, while technology often provides reliable access to evidence, facilitating prosecution, it also introduces challenges, particularly concerning the cooperation of child victims with law enforcement.

Conclusions and Implications: The findings underscore the dual-edged nature of technology—it presents dangers to survivors and adds complexity to service provision and prosecution. However, technological tools that enable online grooming and perpetration could similarly enhance support and care for CSEC victims. Overall, it seems that technology redefines CSEC within a rapidly evolving digital landscape, posing new challenges for service providers and law enforcement. We argue that embracing, rather than resisting, technological advancements is crucial for practitioners in the CSEC field. Technology-centered training should be mandatory for all professionals working with potentially affected children.