Exploited children are individuals under the age of 18 who are coerced, manipulated, or deceived by an individual or group into performing activities for the financial advantage, sexual gratification, or personal benefit of the perpetrator. This involves a significant power imbalance where the child cannot provide true consent, regardless of whether the activity appears voluntary. [1, 2, 3] “Appear to Participate.”

Child exploitation is a form of abuse and can take several forms, including: [1, 2]

• Child Sexual Exploitation (CSE): Coercing a child into sexual activity—online or in person—in exchange for something the child needs or wants (e.g., money, drugs, affection, gifts).
• Child Criminal Exploitation (CCE): Manipulating or forcing children to commit crimes, such as drug dealing (including “county lines” networks), shoplifting, or carrying weapons.
• Online Exploitation: Using technology, social media, or gaming platforms for grooming, sexual enticement, sextortion, or producing child sexual abuse material (CSAM).
• Human Trafficking: The recruitment or transportation of children for forced labor, servitude, or sexual exploitation. [1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6]

Key Indicators of Exploitation
Signs that a child may be experiencing exploitation include, but are not limited to: [1]

• Unexplained items: Possession of money, expensive clothes, or multiple mobile phones.
• Behavioral changes: Increased secrecy, frequent running away from home, or spending excessive time on social media – Possessive.
• Relationships: Associating with controlling, older individuals or new, unknown peer groups.
• Physical/Emotional signs: Unexplained injuries, substance misuse, or signs of sexual activity/abuse.