The protection of children from online exploitation is a critical issue that demands our immediate attention. As digital technology continues to advance rapidly, the risks of child sexual exploitation are becoming more prevalent. The use of online platforms to groom and manipulate minors for sexual activities is a disturbing trend that has resulted in numerous cases of child pornography.
From May to November 2024, the National Police’s Cyber Crime Directorate made significant progress in combating online child pornography crimes. They arrested 58 suspects connected to 47 cases of child pornography, shedding light on the dark reality of exploitation happening online. These suspects were involved in the distribution and sale of pornographic content featuring children under the age of 18.
One particular case that came to light in early 2025 involved the sale of child pornography content through the messaging app Telegram. The perpetrator, identified as RYS, offered subscription packages ranging from Rp10 thousand to Rp15 thousand for three months, exposing vulnerable children to exploitation for profit. The Jakarta Metropolitan Police managed to secure 689 videos and images related to children, highlighting the urgency of addressing this issue.
Senior Commissioner Roberto Pasaribu, the Director of the cyber unit of the Jakarta Metropolitan Police, emphasized the challenges posed by digital anonymity in uncovering child pornography cases. The collaboration between various agencies and institutions, including the Ministry of Women’s Empowerment and Child Protection, Indonesian Child Protection Commission (KPAI), Witness and Victim Protection Agency (LPSK), and non-governmental organizations, is crucial in eradicating child pornography.
The Ministry of Women’s Empowerment and Child Protection commended the efforts in detecting child pornography cases, as it plays a vital role in preventing the further spread of such harmful content. Deputy Nahar stressed the significance of the Electronic Information and Transactions (ITE) Law in addressing these crimes and highlighted the essential role of families in protecting children from online exploitation.
Parents were urged to communicate openly with their children about pornography, monitor their online activities, and provide them with constant support. The long-term impact of online exploitation on children underscores the need for vigilant protection measures. The SAPA 129 call center, established by the Indonesian government, offers support and assistance to child victims of exploitation, emphasizing the importance of child protection in the digital space.
Child Protection in Digital Space
Efforts to safeguard children from online threats continue to gain momentum, with the preparation of the Presidential Regulation on the Road Map for Child Online Protection underway. This regulation aims to protect children from violence in the digital space, including the dissemination of child pornography content that can have severe physical and psychological effects on children’s development.
Nahar’s warning about the dangers of online gaming addiction, pornography, and technological misuse highlights the need for increased awareness and protection measures. The Online Information System for the Protection of Women and Children (Simfoni PPA) reported a significant number of child sexual violence cases in 2024, emphasizing the urgency of addressing these issues to ensure the safety of children online.
Ai Maryati Solihah, Chairperson of the KPAI, stressed the importance of blocking illegal content and taking legal action against perpetrators to protect children from exploitation. The KPAI’s emphasis on the rehabilitation of child victims and the improvement of digital literacy reflects a holistic approach to child protection in the digital age.
Regulating Social Media Access
The Ministry of Communication and Digital Affairs is taking proactive steps to protect children online by planning to impose age restrictions on social media access. Minister Meutya Hafid’s decree to establish a special team to review these restrictions underscores the government’s commitment to safeguarding children in the digital space. The expedited formulation of regulations is crucial to mitigating potential threats and ensuring the safety of children online.
By enhancing collaboration and implementing comprehensive protection measures, we can work towards reducing and eliminating cases of child sexual exploitation. The Indonesian government’s prioritization of child protection in the digital sphere is a positive step towards creating a safer online environment for children. As we navigate the ever-evolving online landscape, it is essential to remain vigilant and proactive in safeguarding the well-being of our children.
