DIRECTIONS FOR INNOVATIVE DEVELOPMENT OF INVESTIGATION METHODOLOGY FOR CRIMINAL OFFENSES AGAINST CHILDREN IN THE CONTEXT OF DIGITALIZATION

Abstract

The article explores the key directions for the innovative development of investigation methodologies for criminal offenses against children in the context of digitalization. It emphasizes that the digitalization of social relations has led to significant changes in the nature of crime, particularly affecting children, who represent one of the most vulnerable population groups. Offenders actively utilize cyberspace to commit illicit acts, such as sexual exploitation, the creation, and distribution of child pornography. The widespread prevalence of these crimes, their high latency, and the use of advanced technologies to conceal evidence highlight the urgent need for effective countermeasures. Based on statistical data from UNICEF and other international organizations, the article demonstrates that the scale of online crimes against children is steadily increasing: the number of resources containing illegal content exceeds 4 million, with more than 200 new child pornography images appearing daily. In Ukraine, according to law enforcement statistics, the number of recorded crimes against children’s sexual freedom shows a consistent upward trend, further exacerbated by the ongoing armed aggression from Russia. The practical aspects of using digital tools for committing crimes are examined and supported by specific court cases. The importance of considering the social context of criminal activity, modernizing Ukraine’s regulatory framework, and developing innovative approaches to criminalistics is underscored. An integrated interdisciplinary approach is proposed, involving the adaptation of theoretical foundations of criminalistics, the implementation of advanced technologies, the creation of specialized models for analyzing digital evidence, and enhanced international cooperation. The study’s findings indicate that the development of modern investigation methodologies, which take into account the specifics of the digital environment, will enhance the effectiveness of investigating offenses, safeguard children’s rights, and improve the level of protection in cyberspace. Future research should focus on creating integrated criminalistic models that align Ukraine’s legal framework with international standards.