Safeguarding beyond classroom AI use
The UNICEF report estimates technology-facilitated sexual abuse affected about one in five internet-using 12-17-year-olds across the studied countries. More than four in ten cases were disclosed to no one.
Why it matters for leaders
Include synthetic sexual images and coercion in student reporting and response procedures. Ensure students know a trusted adult and an accessible route to help.
The evidence
Approximately 21,000 survey respondents and 100 qualitative interviews; survey rounds mainly span 2020-2021 and 2024-2025.
Who was studied
Adolescent safety: 21 countries; not U.S. prevalence
What the evidence cannot tell us
These are not AI-specific prevalence figures or estimates for U.S. students. Much of the evidence predates widespread generative AI. The report addresses AI-generated abuse within broader safeguarding recommendations.
Read the original sources
Summary and leadership analysis from the August 31–September 6, 2026 brief. The edition’s selection notes explain source access and evidence limitations.