TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — The Department of Protective Services reported Friday that over 3,500 minors in Taiwan were victims of sexual exploitation last year, with 70% of these cases involving online platforms.
Department Director Chang Hsiu-yuan (張秀鴛) cited an iWIN internet content protection agency survey showing an increase in internet usage among Taiwanese children and adolescents. The survey indicated that average daily internet use rose from 3.17 hours in 2021 to 3.96 hours in 2024, and the average age of first internet exposure decreased from 8.7 years to 7.1 years.
Chang also referenced a recent survey by the Taiwan Fund for Children and Families, which revealed concerns about digital literacy. About half of the surveyed children and adolescents believed sharing personal information on social media was acceptable.
Close to 50% reported not knowing how to adjust privacy settings, and 40% stated their parents had never discussed internet safety with them. Chang said that limited digital literacy can increase young individuals' vulnerability to online risks and exploitation.
According to 2024 statistics from the National Police Agency and Ministry of Health and Welfare, 70% of the 3,555 minors sexually exploited were targeted via online platforms. In these instances, half of the suspected perpetrators were minors, and 90% of the incidents involved sexually explicit content.
End Child Prostitution and Trafficking, Taiwan program director Chen Shih-ying (陳時英) suggested that adolescent curiosity and desire for social connections can increase their likelihood of engaging in online discussions about intimate topics. Chen advised parents to educate their children on identifying potential warning signs.
Three major warning signs include unsolicited friend requests, private messages from unknown individuals, inappropriate conversations, or requests for personal information such as photos or video calls.
Parenting expert Wang Ching (王晴) recommended that families establish clear guidelines for managing the use of electronic devices. Wang emphasized the significance of balancing structure and flexibility in children's technology use, noting that effective parenting begins with parents setting a positive example.
Ministry data indicated that about 16% of reported physical abuse cases involving minors were related to disagreements over electronic device use, highlighting ongoing challenges for parents in the digital age.
