More than 350 reports connected to child sexual abuse over the internet have been made since January.

The hotline service of Appoġġ, the government’s social agency, received 353 reports through its online reporting system and its 24-hour helpline, Supportline 179.

Of these, 62 were filed through a website set up specifically for this purpose, www.childwebalert.gov.mt, which started operating last summer.

These reports are analysed by professionals from the hotline team and a number were forwarded to the police’s cyber crime unit.

Appoġġ said reporting abuse was one way of contributing towards ensuring children’s right to live in a safe environment is respected.

Anyone who encounters any type of child abuse, including emotional and physical, may call 179 or go to the website.

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