Online Child Protection in Israel: 2022 Report Summary
Online child protection in Israel continues to face serious challenges. The 2022 State Comptroller’s report shows that minors remain exposed to significant risks, including cyberbullying, exploitation, and illegal content. Despite growing awareness, institutional responses remain fragmented and incomplete.
Digital Safety Threats Facing Israeli Children
Children today live much of their social lives online. In Israel, over 85% of middle and high school students own smartphones. However, this digital exposure brings threats. These include the unauthorized sharing of explicit images, sexual exploitation, and online violence.
Between 2018 and 2021, over 28,000 cases related to minors were reported to Hotline 105. Still, 70% of related investigations were closed. According to surveys, 70% of victims never report incidents—many don’t know where to turn.
Read our detailed analysis of cyberbullying in Israel’s schools.
Systemic Gaps in Child Internet Protection Strategy
In 2018, the Israeli government established a national unit for digital child protection. However, the 2022 report reveals that no comprehensive strategy has been finalized. Ministries lack defined goals, coordination, or long-term resource planning.
Additionally, Hotline 105 lacks digital channels and multilingual support. Arabic-speaking operators were only added in 2021. Teens prefer messaging apps, yet the hotline is voice-only. These shortfalls reduce access for vulnerable populations.
Law Enforcement and Legal Oversight Issues
One key issue is the lack of structured tracking of digital crimes involving minors. Many cases reported by Hotline 105 weren’t flagged as internet-related. Misclassification means missed trends and policy failures.
Even when serious cases are identified—such as 31 high-risk pedophilia suspects in 2019—some remain uninvestigated. This points to deeper flaws in enforcement procedures and priority-setting.
See our related post on gaps in digital law enforcement in Israel.
Education System’s Role in Youth Online Safety
Schools are essential partners in ensuring online safety. Unfortunately, only half of school principals report having access to high-quality Ministry support on digital threats. Furthermore, 70% of schools have no protocols for dealing with students harmed online.
Many teachers lack the digital skills to guide students safely. Only a third of school leaders believe their staff is prepared to address online risks. Meanwhile, most students say they wouldn’t approach their school in case of cyber harm.
Explore our guide on tech policy in Israeli education.
Recommendations to Improve Online Child Protection in Israel
- Adopt a comprehensive, long-term strategy for inter-ministerial cooperation.
- Expand Hotline 105 to support digital and multilingual communication.
- Improve classification and tracking of internet-based crimes involving minors.
- Train teachers in digital safety and incident response.
- Engage parents through workshops and online safety toolkits.
The future of online child protection in Israel depends on joint action. Ministries, educators, parents, and tech platforms all have vital roles to play.
Conclusion: Coordinated Action Is Essential
Protecting minors online requires more than awareness—it demands structure. This means policies, trained professionals, digital infrastructure, and informed families. The 2022 report is a wake-up call. If Israel is to shield its youth in the digital age, coordinated action must begin now.
