10/02/2026
Today is Safer Internet Day, a global day of action that raises awareness about online safety and encourages safer digital experiences for everyone.
Sadistic Online Exploitation (SOE) is a serious form of online abuse where someone deliberately manipulates, humiliates or coerces others for their own gratification or status.
SOE can start with someone pretending to be a friend or love interest, then slowly applying pressure or threats. It can involve sharing explicit content, encouraging self-harm, threats, or humiliation.
If you are concerned that a young person you know is being targeted for SOE it is important to take action.
You can report SOE to the Australian Centre to Counter Child Exploitation or to your local state/territory police: https://www.accce.gov.au/report
You can learn more about how to navigate SOE here: https://headspace.org.au/explore-topics/supporting-a-young-person/sadistic-online-exploitation-supporting-a-young-person/