A case that has shaken all of Spain once again raises concerns about child safety in the digital age. In Madrid, police have arrested a man who used modern technology to commit serious crimes against his own daughter. This incident has not only shocked the public but has also sparked discussions about the need for stronger oversight of online platforms and enhanced protection for minors.
According to the investigation, the man organized broadcasts in private chats, where he showed scenes of sexual violence against his underage daughter. He received virtual coins in exchange for access to these broadcasts, which he then used to buy gifts and boost his ranking in the app. This method of monetizing crimes has become a new and alarming trend facing law enforcement agencies.
Police operation
The investigation began after an anonymous tip reached a special police email inbox in November last year. A citizen reported suspicious activity related to child pornography. Cybercrime specialists immediately began verifying the information and soon tracked down a suspect living in the capital.
During a search of his apartment, two mobile phones were seized, which were found to contain a significant amount of pornographic material. The man was arrested and charged with producing, possessing, and distributing child pornography, as well as committing sexual assault. Following questioning, he was immediately taken into custody.
Crime mechanics
Investigators determined that the perpetrator used two different platforms. First, he posted photos with his daughter in private chat rooms within one of the popular apps to attract the attention of potential viewers. Then, using another platform, he organized live broadcasts where he committed criminal acts. Viewers paid to participate in these streams using virtual coins, which could be exchanged for real goods or perks within the app.
This method of profiting from crimes against children is raising particular concern among experts. Virtual currencies and user anonymity complicate the tracking of such incidents and call for new methods to combat cybercrime.
Public reaction
The public and human rights organizations are demanding stricter control over digital platforms and harsher responsibility for distributing child pornography. Many point out that such crimes become possible due to insufficient content monitoring and weak moderation in live streaming applications.
The police remind that any citizen can anonymously report suspicious cases related to crimes against children through a dedicated email address. Over the past two years, many successful operations have been carried out across the country thanks to such reports.
Context and similar cases
In recent years, Spain has seen a rise in crimes involving the use of digital technologies to exploit minors. In 2025, a major child pornography network was uncovered in Valencia, where anonymous platforms and virtual currencies were also used. In Barcelona last year, a group of individuals was arrested for organizing paid broadcasts involving children. These cases highlight the ongoing need to improve detection and prevention methods for such crimes, as well as the importance of cooperation between citizens and law enforcement agencies.
