AI Drafted in War on Online Crimes Against Kids

Artificial intelligence (AI) technologies are being harnessed by law enforcement agencies to combat internet crimes against children (ICAC), as highlighted by AI tool developer Voyager Labs. ICAC task forces are utilizing tools such as “topic query searches” to identify online content related to crimes against children. These AI systems can detect accounts involved in the trading of child sexual abuse material, locate offenders, identify potential victims, and gather essential data for law enforcement cases. This process can yield rapid results, with usable outcomes generated in seconds.

Another tool employed by investigators is the “topic query lexicon,” akin to a translation dictionary or code book. Criminal experts contribute their understanding of criminal communications, including slang, terminology, and emojis, to this lexicon. AI software then employs this lexicon to uncover references to criminal activities online.

Network analysis is another area where AI proves beneficial. It can identify interactions with pages distributing child sexual abuse material, enabling investigators to conduct network analysis and identify potential involvement of multiple offenders in ICAC rings.

The article also emphasizes the significance of sharing geographical data to reduce ICAC, as this empowers agencies with AI capabilities to collaborate with smaller departments lacking similar resources. This is particularly relevant in the context of geographic location of criminal activity.

While AI aids in identifying criminal activity, Voyager also notes its potential in detecting potential victims. Early alerts to law enforcement and families regarding attempted contact by criminals can facilitate timely intervention to protect children from harm.

It is stated that much of this AI research can be achieved through open-source intelligence without warrant or special permissions. However, Voyager’s data collection practices have sparked legal issues, exemplified by a lawsuit filed by Meta Platforms against Voyager Labs for alleged improper data scraping from Facebook and Instagram.

AI’s role in identifying child sexual abuse material also extends to known content through services like Microsoft’s Photo DNA and Google’s Hash Matching API. These services utilize a library of known abusive content to detect its presence online.

The article highlights the need for comprehensive digital literacy programs to educate children about online safety and empower them to recognize risks. These programs aim to create a safer online environment through informed decision-making and awareness of online threats.