How to make a report

The following information can be used as a checklist for how to make a report to the Australian Centre to Counter Child Exploitation.

1. Collect evidence

When making a report, it is helpful to collect evidence before the content is removed to show police exactly what happened. This includes:

  • Screenshots/photos of the conversation (remember to not screenshot, save, share or distribute any explicit images of the underage person as this is an offence).
  • Record of social media details (including account profile, profile usernames and URL of profile).
  • Webpage addresses (URLs).
  • Dates and times.
  • Any other information you have about the interaction or suspect.

It’s important to capture this information before blocking or deleting the user or you may lose important evidence.

2. Block

Block the user and consider changing your account information, including your password.

If you are unsure how to block, check the platforms ‘help’ section.

3. Report

Complete the reporting form here which goes through to the Australian Centre to Counter Child Exploitation for review and assessment.

Online incidents that don’t require a police response can be reported to the platform where the issue occurred. Most platforms have a ‘help’ section that explains how to report or make a complaint.

There is no information too small or insignificant. Something that may appear small or insignificant could prove vital to a police investigation. It is important to understand that the police are here to protect children from online child sexual abuse. They will not be blamed or criticised for being a victim.

What we do

We develop resources and advice for parents, carers and educators, children and young people to prevent online child sexual exploitation.

Led by the Australian Federal Police, our program includes:

  • Presentations for schools and community groups
  • Online learning resources
  • Activities to do at home
  • Fact sheets and guides
  • Educators resources

 

What we don’t do

Our program doesn’t cover:

  • Information about general online safety, including cyberbullying
  • Information about cybercrime

For information about online safety visit the eSafety Commissioner

For information about cybercrime visit ReportCyber

Our partners

ThinkUKnow Australia is a partnership between the Australian Federal Police, Commonwealth Bank of Australia, Datacom and Microsoft Australia, and delivered in partnership with all State and Territory police and Neighbourhood Watch Australasia.

© Australian Federal Police

The Australian Federal Police acknowledges the traditional owners and custodians of country throughout Australia and acknowledges their continuing connection to land, sea and community. We pay our respect to the people, the cultures and the elders past, present and emerging.