This study by Flinders University interviewed participants aged 18 to 21 years about their previous risk-taking experiences as children on adult-based platforms (dating apps, remunerative matchmaking services, subscription platforms, fetish communities):
Children are exposed to risk both online and offline as a result of using adult-based platforms—including inappropriate or illegal conversations involving sexting and activities such as drug use.
Some participants reported engaging in similar risk-taking experiences outside of adult-based platforms.
Future research addressing harm mitigation and preventative measures could assist in lessening children’s access to these platforms.
