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. One 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. This 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. 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 (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.

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. The IWF plays a crucial role in identifying, removing, and preventing the spread of this harmful content. They also work to raise awareness about the issue and collaborate with various stakeholders, including law enforcement, tech companies, and international organizations.

Some people find themselves losing control over their use of pornography, for example by spending more and more time viewing it and, for some, looking for new and different types of pornography, including child pornography, now called child sexual abuse material (CSAM).

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. This makes it difficult for law enforcement to track and trace the flow of funds associated with CSAM.

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).

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. 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. Rapidly growing social media platform Bluesky has joined the IWF to help find, block and remove sexual abuse content of children online. 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. 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. 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. Here 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. Interest 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 includes:

Combating Criminal Activity

The use of Bitcoin for illegal activities like CSAM is a serious concern. Increased 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. 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. 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. As technology evolves, so must our strategies for combating online child exploitation. 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. The 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. At 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. By working together, we can create a safer and more inclusive digital future. Remember, protecting children online is everyone's responsibility. Report 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.