Child exploitation through social networks is rapidly on the rise in Japan, prompting questions about how best to guard against such harm. Vulnerable underage users have become the focus of concern as a recent surge in cases suggests the growing risk kids face online. With an increasing number of child victims, and a legal system slow to respond to tech trends, Japan is grappling with how to combat this internet-age danger.
From a social perspective, Japanese parents and educators place a high priority on the safety and wellbeing of their children, particularly concerning new threats stemming from technology and social media. Putting mitigating measures into place is a growing concern. Legally, Japan's current laws are struggling to adequately address incidents involving online exploitation, adding fuel to the call for a more robust, internet-oriented legal framework.
In the US and EU, child online safety is taken very seriously, with numerous laws and measures aimed at protecting minors on the internet. The existence of robust legislation and internet safety education programs showcases their initial strides in tackling the same challenges.