Germany reports surge in child sexual abuse cases and online exploitation

German police and the Federal Criminal Police Office (BKA) presented a new report showing a sharp rise in sexual offences against children. In 2025 the police recorded 17,126 cases of sexual abuse of minors, up by 772 from the previous year and about 1,600 more than in 2021. The total number of victims reached 18,736, a 3.6 % increase, with girls accounting for roughly 74 % of victims.

The report highlighted a growing digital component: cyber‑grooming, livestreamed abuse, and the use of artificial intelligence to create fake identities and deep‑fake material. Live‑streamed cases jumped from 25 in 2024 to over 250 in 2026, many originating abroad, notably the Philippines. AI tools also aid offenders in generating deceptive images and facilitating sextortion, increasing the workload for investigators.

Interior Minister Alexander Dobrindt and BKA chief Holger Münch warned that the police‑recorded figures represent only the “hell‑field” and that a substantial “dark field” likely exists. Child‑protection organisations have called for reinforced support for counseling services, youth offices and stricter legal tools to combat online exploitation.