Provide Technology to Catch Online Predators

Due to the challenges of working cases during a global pandemic, the purchase and use of technology has become even more critical in fighting internet-facilitated sexual crimes against children.  Because of your generosity, additional computers and monitors have been installed and put to important use in the new Chiang Mai Children's Advocacy Center.  

Specifically, the HUG team is now better equipped to support TICAC (the Thailand Internet Crimes Against Children task force) in three of TICAC's crucial functions:

1. Collection/Restoration of Digital Evidence.  This can be evidence from a victim's device or from the device of a suspected or arrested offender.  Sometimes these files can be hidden, encrypted, or corrupted.  Specialized training, equipment, and software can help overcome these obstacles and lead to a successful prosecution.
2. Victim Identification.  Material from various leads or from evidence in a case must be analyzed by experts in order to identify, locate, and rescue victims.  This can be a difficult, tedious task.  It can also be physically and emotionally exhausting.  Again, technology and training are essential.
3. Content Removal.  Since the start of the COVID-19 crisis, the team has noted an uptick in requests for content removal.  This is when a victim reaches out with a request to remove digital content (photos or videos) from websites or social media platforms.  Sometimes, the content was either recorded or posted (or both) without the victim's consent.  Other times, the subject matter contains or refers to child sex abuse material.  Our team uses technology to help facilitate the removal of such content as quickly as possible.

As internet predators continue to adapt their methods- using technology to exploit children, our team is continuing to support investigations, help identify and locate child victims, and provide aftercare services for victims and their families.  Thank you for your support in helping to provide vital technological tools!