7 March 2008
LAUNCH OF ONLINE CHILD PROTECTION TOOL
The Minister for Home Affairs Bob Debus today launched the Child Exploitation Tracking System which would help police better protect children from online abuse.
“No form of child abuse will be tolerated and the internet is no longer an anonymous place for offenders who target and prey on children,” Mr Debus said.
Developed by Microsoft, the technology is a software tool that enables the AFP to work with law enforcement agencies throughout Australia and around the world, to share and track information relating to online child exploitation and abuse.
Mr Debus said it would increase the effectiveness of police investigations.
“CETS will help police identify and prosecute offenders and ties in with the Government’s Plan for Cyber-Safety announced in November last year.
“With CETS, police can make important connections by speeding up the process of identifying and arresting offenders and by sharing information locally and internationally.
“The Australian Government works closely with the AFP, local and international law enforcement agencies, private industry, non-Government organisations and the wider community and will continue to do so.
“This combined approach is vital to keeping children safe online, Mr Debus said.
“Today’s announcement strengthens our global online presence in actively policing the internet and reinforces our commitment to protecting children.”
The implementation of CETS by the AFP is the result of a recommendation put forward by the Australasian Police Child Protection Committee (APCPC), which consists of State, Territory and New Zealand Police, along with CrimTrac and the Australian Crime Commission.
The AFP is working closely with the APCPC to implement CETS throughout Australia.
Media Contact: Samantha Wills 0448721372.