Despite this surge, the IWF successfully removed content from 291,270 web pages last year, achieving the highest removal rate in its 29-year history.

Derek Ray-Hill, the interim chief executive of the IWF, stressed that social media platforms have the necessary technology to prevent the download of child sexual abuse images and called for immediate implementation of these solutions.

Ofcom is set to investigate claims from platforms that the removal of harmful content is not technically feasible, ensuring accountability for their content moderation practices.

The UK government has recognized the urgent issue of child sexual exploitation, highlighting the legal obligations of social media companies to curb the spread of such harmful content.

Starting in March 2025, the Online Safety Act will mandate that social media companies take decisive action against child abuse material, with Ofcom empowered to impose significant fines for non-compliance.

In a concerning report, the Internet Watch Foundation (IWF) revealed that nearly 300,000 web pages contained child sexual abuse imagery in 2024, representing an alarming 830% increase over the past decade.

Simon Bailey, former lead on child protection for the National Police Chiefs' Council, called for a dedicated minister to oversee the government's response to this escalating crisis.

The IWF has reached out to Sir Keir Starmer, seeking intervention to address potential loopholes in the new Online Safety Act that could be exploited by criminals.

Rani Govender from the NSPCC emphasized the importance of recognizing the real children behind the abuse images, who are often victims of grooming and manipulation.

Bailey urged for a coordinated effort across all government departments, pushing for immediate action on the recommendations from the £200,000 Independent Inquiry into Child Sex Abuse published in 2022.