NCJ Number
191067
Date Published
2000
Length
9 pages
Annotation
This paper discusses the uses of hotlines in combating child pornography on the Internet.
Abstract
Hotlines are initiatives which have developed since 1996 to respond to the presence of illegal material, especially child pornography, on the Internet. The paper addresses why hotlines have emerged as a response to the problem of child pornography on the Internet; the different kinds of hotlines; how hotlines are trying to cooperate with each other; and the challenges which hotlines perceive in combating child pornography on the Internet. Childnet, founded in 1995, is a non-profit organization working internationally to "promote the interests of children in international communications." The INHOPE Forum, founded in 1997, is a place where hotlines can meet. The Forum also analyzes what hotlines do. Cooperation between and among hotlines helps them to exchange experiences and reports, support development of new hotlines, and inform and educate policymakers. The paper concludes that a partnership among the Internet industry, law enforcement, child welfare groups, the Internet user community, and hotlines is necessary to adequately respond to the challenge of child pornography on the Internet. Tables, notes