APR 15 DIGEST: IWF AND BITCOIN EXCHANGES FIGHT CHILD PORNOGRAPHY, BTC EMERGING AS AN EVERYDAY CURRENCY

The digital landscape offers incredible opportunities for connection and innovation, but it also presents significant challenges. Bitcoins used to buy images of child sex abuse could soon be tracked and blocked as two companies share data on how the virtual currency is spent. The Internet Watch Foundation (IWF), whichOne of the most pressing is the exploitation of children through online child sexual abuse material (CSAM).In a concerning trend, the Internet Watch Foundation (IWF) has identified a disturbing link between cryptocurrencies, particularly Bitcoin (BTC), and the financing and distribution of this horrific content.The IWF is actively working with Bitcoin exchanges and other cryptocurrency platforms to combat this abuse by tracking and blocking transactions associated with CSAM. The collaboration will grant the social media platform access to IWF s world-leading tools and datasets for finding, blocking and removing sexual abuse content of children online. Rapidly growing social media platform Bluesky has joined the fight against child sexual abuse material by becoming a Member of the Internet Watch Foundation (IWFThis collaboration aims to disrupt the financial mechanisms that enable these crimes and make the digital space safer for children.Last year alone, the IWF identified over 250,000 websites containing CSAM, highlighting the urgent need for proactive measures.The fight extends beyond just law enforcement; it requires a concerted effort from tech companies, regulatory bodies, and the cryptocurrency community. There are many reasons why someone might seek out sexualized images of children. This content is called child sexual abuse material (CSAM), and it was once referred to as child pornography. Not everyone realizes that CSAM is harmful and illegal. They may not realize that they are watching a crime.Meanwhile, amidst these challenges, Bitcoin continues to evolve, showing increasing signs of becoming an everyday currency, used for legitimate transactions and investments worldwide.This article delves into both these critical aspects of the current digital landscape.

The Internet Watch Foundation's Fight Against CSAM and Cryptocurrency

The Internet Watch Foundation (IWF) is a UK-based non-profit organization dedicated to combating online child sexual abuse.They operate a hotline for reporting CSAM, which is then analyzed by experts. This comes as the IWF, which is the UK s front line against online child sexual abuse, publishes new data revealing 2025 as the worst year on record for online child sexual abuse imagery. The IWF says Sir Keir, who first authorised the charity to start proactively hunting down child sexual abuse imagery when he was head of the CrownThe IWF plays a crucial role in identifying, removing, and preventing the spread of this harmful content. A new breed of company enabled his business: cryptocurrency exchanges. Mohammad's customers used these platforms to buy digital tokens with dollars and euros, and spend them with relativeThey also work to raise awareness about the issue and collaborate with various stakeholders, including law enforcement, tech companies, and international organizations.

How Criminals Use Cryptocurrency to Fund CSAM

Criminals are increasingly using cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin to buy and sell CSAM online due to the perceived anonymity and ease of transactions that digital currencies can offer.Cryptocurrency exchanges facilitate these transactions by allowing users to convert traditional currencies like dollars and euros into Bitcoin, which can then be used to purchase illegal content on the dark web and other online platforms. Amid emerging trends, such as child sexual abuse material generated by AI, it is critical that making the internet safer for children is a top priority for the new parliament. In 2025 alone, the IWF removed over one million web pages featuring child sexual abuse images and videos.This makes it difficult for law enforcement to track and trace the flow of funds associated with CSAM.

An investigative report revealed that between January and March 2025, almost 4,000 Bitcoin transactions originating from U.S.-linked cryptocurrency exchanges were traced to wallets associated with CSAM.This underscores the alarming extent to which cryptocurrency is being used to facilitate these crimes.

IWF's Collaboration with Bitcoin Exchanges

Recognizing the critical role of cryptocurrency exchanges in enabling these transactions, the IWF is actively engaging with these platforms to develop strategies for preventing the use of Bitcoin for CSAM. The Internet Watch Foundation (IWF) is seeking to collaborate with Bitcoin companies to fight against the use of digital currencies for online child pornography, reported CoinDesk.This collaboration involves:

• Data Sharing: The IWF shares data on virtual currency wallets associated with online CSAM with relevant companies.
• Tracking and Blocking: Bitcoin companies use this information to track and block transactions originating from or destined for these wallets.
• Reporting: Cryptocurrency exchanges are encouraged to report suspicious activity related to CSAM to law enforcement agencies.

By working together, the IWF and Bitcoin exchanges can create a more hostile environment for criminals who seek to exploit children online.

IWF's Tools and Resources

The IWF provides various tools and resources to help businesses and platforms identify and remove CSAM.These include:

• Hashing Technology: The IWF makes millions of hashes of known CSAM imagery available for free, allowing businesses to quickly identify and remove this content from their platforms.
• Reporting Portal: The IWF operates a hotline for reporting CSAM, which is then analyzed by experts.

Dan Sexton, Chief Technology Officer at the IWF, emphasizes the importance of these tools in making platforms hostile spaces for criminals. ""By making millions of hashes of known child sexual abuse imagery available for free, in a simple tool for businesses and platforms, we can dramatically change the landscape and make thousands of platforms hostile spaces for criminals.""

The Role of Social Media Platforms

Social media platforms are also playing an increasing role in the fight against CSAM. We see child sexual abuse material for sale in exchange for virtual currencies. What can we do about this? Notifications are sent to relevant companies when we see virtual currency wallets associated with online child sexual abuse images and videos, anywhere in the world.Rapidly growing social media platform Bluesky has joined the IWF to help find, block and remove sexual abuse content of children online. Dan Sexton, Chief Technology Officer at the IWF, said: By making millions of hashes of known child sexual abuse imagery available for free, in a simple tool for businesses and platforms, we can dramatically change the landscape and make thousands of platforms hostile spaces for criminals.Facebook, whilst playing a part, were accountable for two thirds of reported online child sex abuse content.

Bitcoin's Growing Adoption as an Everyday Currency

While the fight against CSAM is paramount, it's important to acknowledge the legitimate and growing adoption of Bitcoin as an everyday currency. nitial research findings into the motivations, behaviour and actions of people who view indecent images of children (often referred to as child pornography) online is released today (Thursday, March 28) by the child protection charity the Lucy Faithfull Foundation (LFF) and the Internet Watch Foundation (IWF).Bitcoin's decentralized nature, transparency, and potential for lower transaction fees are attracting individuals and businesses alike.

What Factors are Driving Bitcoin's Adoption?

Several factors contribute to Bitcoin's increasing acceptance as a mainstream currency:

• Increased Awareness: More people are becoming aware of Bitcoin and its potential benefits.
• Technological Advancements: Improvements in blockchain technology and the development of user-friendly wallets and exchanges have made it easier to use Bitcoin.
• Institutional Adoption: Major corporations and financial institutions are increasingly investing in Bitcoin and integrating it into their services.
• Inflation Hedge: Some people view Bitcoin as a hedge against inflation and economic uncertainty.
• Remittances: Bitcoin can be used for faster and cheaper international money transfers.

Top Bitcoin Exchanges for Trading

The availability of reliable and user-friendly cryptocurrency exchanges is crucial for the widespread adoption of Bitcoin. The Internet Watch Foundation (IWF) welcomes the outcome of the meeting that the Culture Secretary called for on Tuesday 18 June. The IWF is looking forward to closely working with its members and other partners, both nationally as well as internationally, to step up the fight against online child sexual abuse content.Some of the top Bitcoin exchanges include:

• BTCC: Known for its long history and seamless fiat-to-crypto trading services.
• Coinbase: Popular for its user-friendly interface and wide range of cryptocurrencies.
• Binance: Offers a wide range of trading options and features.
• Kraken: Known for its security and regulatory compliance.

These exchanges provide a platform for users to buy, sell, and trade Bitcoin with ease.

Earning Passive Income with Bitcoin

Beyond its use as a currency, Bitcoin can also be used to generate passive income. More than 200 Australians have collectively paid more than $1.3 million to watch live streamed child sexual abuse filmed in the Philippines. In the video above, a report in December found Facebook responsible for two thirds of all reported online child sex abuse Know the news with the 7NEWS appHere are a few ways to earn with Bitcoin:

• Lending: Lend your Bitcoin to borrowers on lending platforms and earn interest.
• Staking: Stake your Bitcoin on proof-of-stake networks and earn rewards for validating transactions.
• Interest Accounts: Deposit your Bitcoin in interest-bearing accounts offered by cryptocurrency exchanges and earn passive income. The world's gateway to Bitcoin cryptocurrency. Buy, sell, spend, swap, and invest in BTC, ETH, BCH, AVAX, MATIC hundreds more digital assets. Stay informed aboutInterest rates typically range from 1% to 6% APY.

It is important to research and understand the risks associated with these methods before investing.

Bitcoin-linked Meme Coins

The popularity of Bitcoin has also spawned a number of meme coins that are linked to its price trajectory.For example, BTCBULL is a meme coin that rewards holders every time Bitcoin crosses a new $50,000 milestone.These meme coins can be highly volatile and should be approached with caution.

Navigating the Challenges: Ethical Considerations and Responsible Use

As Bitcoin becomes more mainstream, it's important to address the ethical considerations and promote responsible use. This article delves into the seven best crypto exchanges in the United States for Bitcoin trading, renowned for their low-spread trading, high market liquidity, and transparent fees. We ve handpicked these platforms based on trading volume, exchange reputation, and the breadth of trading pairsThis includes:

Combating Criminal Activity

The use of Bitcoin for illegal activities like CSAM is a serious concern. There are several ways that a person might sexually exploit a child or youth online. A note about youth internet use Technology is woven into our everyday lives, and it is necessary in many ways even for young children. Young people are spending more time than ever before using devices, and so itIncreased regulation and collaboration between law enforcement and cryptocurrency exchanges are needed to combat these crimes.

Addressing Volatility

Bitcoin's price volatility can make it risky for everyday use. Heidi Kempster, Deputy CEO of the IWF, said: The IWF exists to hunt down images and videos of child sexual abuse online and eradicate them. But we cannot do this alone. Because of the vast nature of the internet, we need allies in the international tech industry to help us to disrupt and stop the spread of child sexual abuse material.Stablecoins, which are cryptocurrencies pegged to a stable asset like the US dollar, can provide a more stable alternative for transactions.

Promoting Financial Literacy

Many people still lack a basic understanding of Bitcoin and cryptocurrency.Financial literacy programs can help people make informed decisions and avoid scams.

How Can You Contribute to a Safer Digital Environment?

Everyone has a role to play in creating a safer digital environment, especially when it comes to protecting children.Here's what you can do:

• Report CSAM: If you encounter CSAM online, report it to the Internet Watch Foundation (IWF) or your local law enforcement agency.
• Support Organizations Fighting CSAM: Donate to organizations like the IWF that are working to combat online child sexual abuse.
• Educate Yourself and Others: Learn more about the issue of CSAM and share your knowledge with others.
• Practice Safe Online Habits: Be aware of the risks of online child exploitation and take steps to protect yourself and your children.

The Future of Bitcoin and the Fight Against Online Child Exploitation

The future of Bitcoin is uncertain, but its potential as a global currency and store of value is undeniable. The IWF is the Hotline to report: child sexual abuse content hosted anywhere in the world; criminally obscene adult content hosted in the UK; non-photographic child sexual abuse images hosted in the UK. For more information please visit www.iwf.org.uk. To be kept up to date with the IWF s activities throughout the year you can:However, it's crucial to address the ethical challenges and ensure that Bitcoin is not used to facilitate criminal activity.The collaboration between the Internet Watch Foundation and Bitcoin exchanges is a positive step in this direction, but more work needs to be done. You may have several deposits in your wallet to earn interest on various coins. Interest profits are added to your wallet every seven days and paid out in the same currency as the deposit. For example, if you deposit BTC, you will earn interest paid out in BTC.As technology evolves, so must our strategies for combating online child exploitation. IWF CEO calls it a social and digital emergency requiring a sustained national prevention effort. New data released by the Internet Watch Foundation (IWF) shows almost 20,000 webpages of child sexual abuse imagery in the first half of 2025 included self-generated content of 7- to 10-year-old children.This requires a collective effort from governments, law enforcement, tech companies, and individuals.

Conclusion: A Call to Action

The **APR 15 DIGEST** highlights two critical issues: the fight against online child pornography and the growing acceptance of Bitcoin as an everyday currency. APR 15 DIGEST: IWF and Bitcoin Exchanges Fight Child Pornography, BTC Emerging as an Everyday Currency; APR 14 DIGEST: Bitcoin Foundation appoints Bruce Fenton as Executive Director and KasperskyThe Internet Watch Foundation's (IWF) efforts to combat CSAM by collaborating with Bitcoin exchanges are crucial in disrupting the financial mechanisms that enable these crimes. This investigative report reveals that between January 2025 and March 2025, nearly 4,000 Bitcoin transactions flowed from U.S.-linked cryptocurrency exchanges to wallets associated with CSAMAt the same time, Bitcoin's increasing adoption presents opportunities for innovation and economic empowerment.However, it's essential to address the ethical challenges and ensure that Bitcoin is used responsibly. The Internet Watch Foundation (IWF) is warning that criminals are using cryptocurrencies to access or buy images and videos of children suffering sexual abuse and rape online. Last year (2025), the IWF identified 250,000 websites containing child sexual abuse.By working together, we can create a safer and more inclusive digital future. Bitcoin (BTC) is the most widely supported cryptocurrency, with interest rates typically ranging from 1% to 6% APY. As the most established crypto asset, it s seen as a relatively stable choice for earning passive income, though the rates are generally lower than those for altcoins.Remember, protecting children online is everyone's responsibility. The Top Bitcoin Exchanges to Buy and Sell BTC. Dive into the global landscape of Bitcoin trading as we explore the top exchanges from around the world. These platforms are not just hubs for trading; they serve as gateways to the intriguing world of Bitcoin transactions, tailored specifically for users across various regions. MoreReport any suspected CSAM to the IWF and support organizations that are working to combat this heinous crime.Let's all play our part in making the internet a safer place for children and ensuring that Bitcoin is used for good.