The Kerala Police has rolled out artificial intelligence (AI) tools to detect and track online child sexual abuse material (CSAM).

With the move, the police department plans to expand its cyber surveillance across the dark web and encrypted platforms such as Telegram.

The progress brings a shift towards data-led policing as authorities respond to the growing use of anonymous networks for the distribution of illegal content.

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AI Tools Strengthen Monitoring of Dark Web and Encrypted Platforms

The new system utilises AI to scan large volumes of online data, flag suspicious patterns and identify users who share or consume abusive content.

The focus is on using technology to track digital footprints across hidden networks, where conventional policing tools have limited reach.

The deployment comes amid rising concerns over the use of encrypted messaging apps & dark web forums to circulate CSAM. Investigators are using AI to map networks, detect repeat offenders and speed up evidence gathering.

“The system can analyse images and videos, match them with known databases and generate alerts for further investigation. This reduces manual workload and enables faster identification of suspects.”

-said police sources

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The Motto: Prevention, Identification and Faster Prosecution

The plan is not limited to detection; it extends to strengthening prosecution. Inclusion of AI-generated leads within existing cybercrime units will support arrests and swift legal action.

The broader motive is to curtail online exploitation using technology-driven policing. As digital crime becomes more complex, law enforcement agencies are increasingly relying on AI to enhance surveillance, evidence collection and case resolution.