E/CN.15/2014/CRP.1 definitions of “child”. Some countries have enacted laws that are specific to the commission of child exploitation offenses using ICTs., while other States rely on general criminal laws against abuse and exploitation. In some countries, there may be little or no legal basis for police to take action against child abusers and exploiters if the victim has already reached the legal age of consent, even though the child is still under 18 years of age. Most jurisdictions set the age of consent for sexual activity below 18 years of age, with the average ranging from 13 to 16 years. Tools and mechanisms for international cooperation include mutual legal assistance treaties, direct law enforcement cooperation, multi-agency partnerships, forums for information-sharing and informal direct law enforcement cooperation. Significant challenges nevertheless still exist in achieving effective international cooperation regarding online investigations and electronic evidence in criminal matters. Specific tools can be employed for detection and investigation, such as the use of digital forensic techniques, automated search, image analysis and image databases, data mining and analytics. The private sector is also a key actor in the prevention of such crimes. Electronic service providers may engage in this respect through varying degrees of self-regulation, including by internet service providers, self-monitoring by travel and tourism companies and the creation of financial coalitions. Parents, guardians, child educators and civil society are a further vital component in combating the problem, including in supporting children in understanding and handling online risks, the “flagging” of certain material online, the creation of telephone hotlines for reporting, and contributions towards education and psycho-social methods of prevention. Opportunities to enhance the fight against ICT-facilitated child abuse and exploitation In enhancing the fight against ICT-facilitated child abuse and exploitation, governments and national authorities may focus on a child protection approach that fully respects human rights; on ensuring that legislation keeps pace with technological innovation; on recruiting, training and maintaining specialized personnel; on gaining access to state-of-theart technological resources; developing effective mechanisms for accessing third party data and conducting undercover investigations that are consistent with the rule of law; as well as developing policy-guidance on harmful conduct committed by youth. The formulation of policies in this area is best based on a multi-disciplinary approach that draws on research findings and best practices from social science, legal policy, and public policy. x V.14-03040