Article in the special issue
What Do We Know About Dark Web Sexual Abuse Crimes Against Minors After COVID-19? A Systematic Review
- Virginia State University, USA
Abstract
The internet has become a catalyst for globalization, while the dark web remains a relatively hidden environment associated with various forms of cybercrime. This study examines how the dark web facilitates child sexual exploitation in the post-pandemic context using qualitative meta-synthesis. It focuses on the role of online anonymity, offender behaviour, and the vulnerability of minors in concealed digital environments. The analysis synthesizes post-pandemic empirical research and identifies four key themes: intentional user behaviour patterns, social structures that reinforce engagement, complex offender risk profiles, and barriers to detection and intervention. The findings indicate that the dark web can create conditions that facilitate child sexual exploitation while complicating law enforcement responses. The study contributes contemporary insights into emerging patterns of online child sexual exploitation and challenges for prevention and intervention.
Keywords
How to cite (APA 7)
Reese, P., & Bolli, P. (2025). What Do We Know About Dark Web Sexual Abuse Crimes Against Minors After COVID-19? A Systematic Review. International Journal of Justice and Police Sciences, 1(2), 176–214. https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.22191304