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Originally appeared on E! Online Kristin Cavallari is kissing and telling about her experience dating Morgan Wallen. > Philadelphia news 24/7: Watch NBC10 free wherever you are "The Hills" alum shared NSFW details about her past romance with the country star, more than a month after seemingly confirming they had at one point been involved. "He's a great f--- buddy," Cavallari said on the Dec. 29 episode of Bunnie XO's "Dumb Blonde" podcast. "He was good in bed." Wallen, 31, has not commented on the "Very Cavallari" star's remarks. Cavallari also shared details about her first date with the "Love Somebody" singer, who, she added, is a "good guy" with a "big heart." "The first date that we went on, he was a true gentleman," the 37-year-old told Bunnie, "and he was like, 'I'll pick you up, I'll pick the place,' like, just f---ing handled business." Cavallari, who shares children Camden, 12, Jaxon, 10, and Saylor, 8 with ex-husband Jay Cutler , said Wallen did indeed pick her up and met her kids before they went out. "My kids were so excited," Cavallari said. "It was so cute." READ Kristin Cavallari Admits She's in Her "Villain Era" After Dating Confessions She said that Wallen got the two a private room at the venue they visited, without naming it, and that they were accompanied by his bodyguard. The singer later dropped her off, she said. But the date did not end there. "He kissed me in the rain," she said, "and it was the sweetest thing." CAvallari did not specify when the date occurred or how long their romance lasted. She also said she has not spoken to him in "probably a year." "But," she added, "I have nothing but good things to say about him." In November, more than a month after confirming her breakup from Montana Boyz TikToker Mark Estes and amid romance rumors about her and Wallen, Cavallari seemingly admitted that she had dated the 2025 Grammy nominee . In a video posted on her social media, she and BFF Justin Anderson took part in a viral trend in which people call out truths about one another. In the clip, Cavallari is seen jogging as her friend is heard saying, "Suspect let Morgan Wallen hurt her feelings, and she kept going back." She bursts out laughing and covers her mouth in response. On Bunnie's podcast, Cavallari offered some context into the claim. "God, I'm so sorry, Morgan. He didn't hurt my feelings," she began. "I'll be honest with you — Morgan was the first guy in my entire f---ing like that wasn't just completely enamored with me. And I was like, 'What in the f--- is going on?' It really threw me." The "Uncommon James" founder added, "I love having the upper hand and I feel like with him, I didn't have the upper hand. The only time in my life. So it really f---ed with me."Quick Links Military aircraft model kits Books about military aviation Flight simulators let enthusiasts fly from home Military pilot watches Experience flight aboard a military aircraft Whether they admire the raw power of classic military aircraft or the precision of modern jets, military aviation enthusiasts have a deep passion that makes gift-giving a thrilling challenge. From intricate model kits to once-in-a-lifetime experiences, here are five gift ideas to delight the military aviation aficionado in your life this holiday season. 1 Military aircraft model kits Bring military aviation to life with model kits For those who enjoy working with their hands, a military aircraft model kit makes a great gift. With impeccable details, from the panel lines to decals that mirror historical accuracy , these models provide hours of immersive craftsmanship where military aviation history takes shape one piece at a time. Aircraft model kits come in various sizes, types, and price ranges, catering to different interests, skill levels, and budgets. Each type of kit offers a different experience, from the simplicity of snap-together models to the complexity of resin or vacuum-formed kits, catering to a wide range of expertise levels in the modeling community. Some common types of kits include: Scale Model Kits : These are replicas of real aircraft, scaled down to a manageable size. They range from small scales like 1:144 to larger ones like 1:32, with 1:72 and 1:48 being popular choices. These kits often include detailed parts and decals to replicate the aircraft accurately. Snap-Together Kits : Ideal for beginners or younger modelers, these kits don't require glue or paint. The parts snap together easily, making them a great introduction to model building. Glue and Paint Kits : These are more advanced and require assembly using glue. They often come unpainted, allowing modelers to customize the look with their own paint schemes. These kits are popular among hobbyists who enjoy the detailed work of painting and assembling. Resin Kits : Made from resin rather than plastic, these kits often offer more detailed parts and are typically aimed at experienced modelers. Due to the material's properties, they can be more challenging to work with. Vacuum-Formed Kits : These kits use thin plastic sheets formed over a mold. They require more skill to assemble, as parts need to be cut out and shaped. They're less common but offer unique subjects that are not available in other formats. Wooden Model Kits : These kits are made from wood and often replicate older aircraft, like biplanes or early aviation models. They can be more challenging to build but offer a different modeling experience. Look for kits with larger 1/32 or 1/48 scales for enhanced detail and realism. Brands like Tamiya and Eduard are renowned for their quality and attention to accuracy. Consider limited editions or specialty series for extra collector's appeal, and make sure the model comes with an attractive stand for easy showcasing. Consider scale diecast aircraft models Diecast aircraft models are an elegant alternative for the aviation enthusiast who revels in displays rather than DIY projects. While not kits in the traditional sense, diecast models are pre-assembled and painted, often used for display rather than building. Some enthusiasts collect these for their detail and durability. These ready-made replicas, from the B-52 Stratofortress to the sleek F-15 Eagle , are crafted with an almost obsessive level of detail. The weighted feel of metal diecast models, the historically precise paint, and the intricate cockpit designs turn these into stunning collectibles that suit any home or office. 2 Books about military aviation Explore the skies through pages of history, biographies, and technical insights Books provide the perfect escape for military aviation enthusiasts. Whether they’re learning about their favorite aircraft or unraveling the mysteries of aerial combat, these written treasures connect readers with their passion. Whether someone is passionate about historical accounts, personal memoirs, or the intricate mechanics behind aircraft, books cater to every niche of interest. Here’s a selection of recommended reads catering to different facets of the military aviation world: "Flyboys" by James Bradley: This gripping narrative follows the untold story of eight WWII American pilots downed over Chichi Jima. James Bradley examines the bravery and humanity within the chaos of conflict, crafting a haunting and thought-provoking read for those who appreciate the human element of military aviation. "Skunk Works" by Ben R. Rich and Leo Janos: For the tech-savvy reader, this behind-the-scenes account of Lockheed Martin’s secret division, the Skunk Works , offers an incredible perspective on groundbreaking advances in aircraft design. It covers projects like the U-2 and SR-71 Blackbird, making it a favorite for those fascinated by engineering marvels. "Baa Baa Black Sheep" by Gregory “Pappy” Boyington : This personal and raw memoir by fighter ace Pappy Boyington recounts his experiences leading the famed Black Sheep Squadron during WWII. The candidness of his stories makes it a compelling read and a must-have for any aviation fan interested in personal dramas. "The Wild Blue" by Stephen E. Ambrose: Ambrose’s detailed narrative focuses on the B-24 pilots of the 15th Army Air Force during WWII. This book captures the camaraderie, fear, and triumph of young men flying dangerous missions, making it an inspiring and emotional read. Airport bookstores are an excellent place to kill time. 3 Flight simulators let enthusiasts fly from home Take their passion to the cockpit with a hands-on flight simulator Flight simulators have made the dream of flying a reality for hobbyists, enthusiasts, and even professional pilots. With technology evolving, there are two main options for at-home flight simulation setups—traditional computer-based setups and virtual reality (VR) systems. Both offer unique experiences and cater to different user preferences. Computer-Based Flight Simulators Computer-based flight simulators are the traditional choice for at-home aviation enthusiasts. These setups rely on a PC and peripherals like joysticks, throttle quadrants, and rudder pedals to mimic the experience of flying. They are widely popular because of their adaptability and the sheer variety of software and hardware options available. Thanks to decades of software development, these flight simulators offer the most realistic flight experience one could imagine from the comfort of your home. Want to feel the thrills and endless possibilities of real-world flight rewards and challenges? With X-Plane 12, you get completely reimagined weather, immersive, volumetric 3D clouds, wake turbulence, microbursts, thermals, snow, rain, and ice accumulation and so much more. It’s as real as it gets without burning a drop of av gas. - X-Plane.com A computer-based setup is perfect for users who value fine-tuned control, detailed visuals, and the ability to upgrade over time. Additionally, it supports training simulations for budding or experienced pilots. Some advantages of computer-based flight simulators include: Realistic Displays: With widescreen monitors or multiple screens, users can enjoy panoramic views of their flight environment. Modern software offers incredibly detailed landscapes, airports, and weather effects. Customizability: You can upgrade graphics cards, processors, and displays for a more immersive experience. Peripheral options, like yokes and avionics panels, also add authenticity. Software Options: Popular platforms like Microsoft Flight Simulator, X-Plane, and Prepar3D offer extensive features, realistic flight physics, and global scenery updates. Cost-Effective Entry: While fully customizable setups can get pricey, a basic system with a joystick and decent PC is often more affordable than VR systems. For everything you need to know about flight simulator software, check out these articles on GAMERANT. Virtual Reality Flight Simulators For those seeking unparalleled immersion, VR flight simulators provide an intense “in-the-cockpit” experience. VR gear like Meta Quest paired with games like Battles over the Pacific offers an entirely different way to take to the skies. VR flight simulation is ideal for those who want a deeply immersive adventure in the skies, provided they have a strong stomach for virtual turbulence and motion sickness (yes, really). Some advantages of VR flight simulators include: Total Immersion: With VR headsets, users experience a 360-degree view of the cockpit and surroundings. They can turn their heads to check airplane instruments, just as they would in a real aircraft. Depth Perception: VR provides realistic depth perception, making it easier to judge distances during tricky maneuvers like landings or formation flying. Compact and Portable Setup: VR systems eliminate the need for multiple monitors. All you need is a VR headset and the included controller. Cutting-Edge Experience: VR can make learning and simulation exciting for casual users by immersing them in foreign airports, turbulent weather, or even historical planes. Popular flight simulation tools and hardware Computer-Based Setups Software: Microsoft Flight Simulator 2020, X-Plane 12, or Aerofly FS 4 Hardware: Logitech G Flight Yoke System, Thrustmaster T.16000M, or Honeycomb Alpha Flight Controls VR Setup System: Meta Quest 3 Games: WWI Fighters, Battles Over the Pacific 4 Military pilot watches Timeless style inspired by military design For those passionate about military aviation, military pilot watches are more than just timepieces; they’re symbols of precision, history, and adventure. These watches combine functionality with rugged beauty. They often feature luminous dials for reading in low light, durable leather straps, and designs steeped in military tradition, making them an ideal gift for military aviation fans. Some popular models replicate classic timepieces, while others blend retro charm with modern technology, like chronographs and water resistance. This combination of elegance and utility makes it a perfect gift for everyday use and special occasions. Whether you’re shopping on a budget or aiming for a luxury statement, there’s a pilot watch to suit every taste. Affordable Options (Under $400) Citizen Promaster Nighthawk: Known for its Eco-Drive technology, this watch is powered by light, eliminating the need for battery changes. Casio Edifice: Perfect for those who value functionality, the stainless steel Edifice features a slide-rule bezel, a practical tool for calculating speed, distance, and fuel consumption—ideal for anyone drawn to aviation tech. Mid-Range Options ($400–$1,000) At this level, you’ll find watches that balance precision engineering with high-quality materials. Hamilton Khaki Aviation Pilot Auto : Boasting a large, easy-to-read dial with luminous markers, Hamilton’s legacy of supplying timepieces for military and aviation purposes shines in this watch. . Tissot Chrono XL Aviation : Swiss quartz movement ensures accuracy, while chronograph functionality and good looks make it a practical and stylish choice for daily wear. Premium Picks ($1,000–$5,000) For those looking to splurge, these watches offer superior craftsmanship and exclusivity. Sinn 104 St Sa I : Built by the German watchmaker known for rugged designs, this pilot watch features a clean, minimalist dial, a bidirectional bezel, and excellent water resistance. Oris Big Crown ProPilot : This watch combines aviation-inspired esthetics with modern engineering. It features an automatic coin-edge bezel reminiscent of aircraft turbines and an oversized crown that is not only attractive but also highly functional. Luxury Selections ($5,000 and Up) For the ultimate statement piece, high-end aviator watches showcase world-class craftsmanship and rich aviation heritage. Breitling Navitimer B01 Chronograph : A favorite among pilots and collectors alike, the Navitimer includes a circular slide rule for aviation calculations, a chronograph, and a bold dial that makes it a standout piece. IWC Big Pilot’s Watch 43 : The epitome of sophistication and functionality, IWC's Big Pilot's Watch is inspired by the timepieces developed for pilots during WWII, featuring a minimalist dial, oversized crown, and high-performance movement. 5 Experience flight aboard a military aircraft Making Memories That Will Last a Lifetime For military aviation enthusiasts, nothing connects them more to their passion than experiencing it firsthand. These once-in-a-lifetime flight experiences put attendees in the cockpit, surrounded by the roaring engines and the unmistakable charm of a bygone era. Many flight experiences include educational elements, with passengers learning about the design and purpose of the aircraft, its role in history, and the stories of the brave men and women who flew them. It’s a riveting combination of adventure and education, tailored perfectly for aviation enthusiasts. For fans who’ve long admired these planes from afar, being a passenger is a dream realized. Several organizations across the United States and internationally offer these extraordinary experiences. Here’s a closer look at just a few of the companies, the aircraft they feature, and what they provide: 1. The Collings Foundation Aircraft : B-17 Flying Fortress, B-24 Liberator, and P-51 Mustang. Locations : Rotating locations along national tours (U.S.). Experience : The Collings Foundation offers rides in several WWII aircraft. Passengers can relive history inside bombers like the B-17 “Flying Fortress.” For thrill-seekers, the P-51 Mustang offers a hands-on experience (passengers can take the controls alongside a trained pilot). Additional Details: Flights typically last 30–45 minutes, with pre-flight history briefings. 2. Commemorative Air Force (CAF) Aircraf t: AT-6 Texan, B-25 Mitchell, T-34 Mentor, and more. Locations : Various CAF wings across the U.S. Experience : With hundreds of aircraft in their fleet, the CAF allows guests to experience the thrill of flying in planes from every era of military aviation. For example, you can train like a WWII pilot in the AT-6 Texan or enjoy a scenic flight in a B-25 Mitchell. Additional Details : Many locations also feature flying museums where guests can learn about aviation history before or after their flight. 4. Experimental Aircraft Association Aircraft : B-25 Berlin Express Locations : Nationwide tours in the U.S. Experience : The EAA offers a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to ride aboard the B-25 Additional Details : Tickets often include insights from veterans or historians who share stories about the aircraft’s combat missions. Whether they’re building an A-10 Warthog from scratch, feeling the rush of a flight simulator at home, or soaring through the sky in a vintage aircraft, these gift ideas are guaranteed to be a hit with the military aviation enthusiast in your life. The gift of flight might seem like the perfect idea – but is it allowed?Savion Williams rushed for two touchdowns and Josh Hoover threw for 252 yards as TCU pulled away from Arizona in the second half, winning 49-28 on Saturday in Fort Worth, Texas. The Horned Frogs (7-4, 5-3 Big 12) scored touchdowns on five consecutive possessions, starting late in the first half after the Wildcats (4-7, 2-6) pulled within 14-13. Williams carried nine times for 80 yards, scoring on runs of 1 and 20 yards in the first half. Hoover completed 19 of 26 passes, with one touchdown and one interception, before being pulled midway through the fourth quarter when the Frogs were up by 21. TCU took control after leading 21-13 at halftime, going up 35-13 on a 38-yard reception to JP Richardson midway through the third. Arizona kept its hopes alive, ending a 15-play, 75-yard drive with a 3-yard touchdown pass to Chris Hunter on fourth down on the first play of the fourth quarter. The two-point conversion made it 35-21. But the Horned Frogs responded with another TD drive, capped by a 6-yard run by Cam Cook for a 42-21 advantage. Arizona added a 70-yard fumble return touchdown with one minute to go for the game's final score. Tetairoa McMillan caught nine passes for 115 yards to become the Arizona career leader in receiving yardage with 3,355. He surpassed his receivers coach, Bobby Wade (3,351), at the top spot. The Wildcats' Noah Fifita completed 29 of 44 passes for 284 yards with two touchdowns and an interception, which happened on the game's first snap. TCU promptly scored on a 4-yard run by Trent Battle, and Williams added a 1-yard TD run late in the first quarter for a 14-0 lead. But the Wildcats fought back, getting a 17-yard touchdown reception by Hunter and field goals of 53 and 43 yards from Tyler Loop to climb within 14-13 with 1:55 go before halftime. That's almost how the half ended, but the Horned Frogs converted third-and-18 on the ensuing drive and then gained 24 yards on third-and-25 to the Arizona 20. That set up a 20-yard run by Williams on fourth-and-1 with 13 seconds left for a 21-13 lead. --Field Level Media
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It’s the most wonderful time of the year, and these festive neighborhoods will prove it. Whether you’re celebrating Christmas, Hanukkah, the Winter Solstice, or Kwanzaa, there is joy in strolling a nearby block or hopping in the car where you can blast holiday tunes. You can even explore holiday lights in some of these neighborhoods via a boat. We compiled a list of 10 Southern California destinations known for their lit holiday hoods! It wouldn’t be Southern California without some beachside holiday cheer and displays. Visitors can start their stroll at the marine or Mothers’ Beach for the best expedition. The neighborhoods surrounding Naples Island take the holidays to heart with some breathtaking Christmas light decorations that will guide Santa Claus in the dark night skies. Long Beach also puts on a beautiful Christmas tree lighting display and offers holiday light tours on a double-decker Big Red Bus that rides passengers around the best decorated private homes, the famous floating Christmas trees in Alamitos Bay, and near a Ferris Wheel. If you’re planning a more romantic festive date, Gondola Getaway Inc. provides gondola rides paired with a cup of hot chocolate for you and your sweetie. Where: Holiday Light Tours pick up is at Marni’s OC 620 Pacific Coast Hwy, Seal Beach. When: The Holiday Light tours are scheduled at 5:30 p.m., 6:45 p.m., and 8 p.m. from Sunday through Thursday through Dec. 19, with the final night on Dec. 23. For tickets and reservations, call 562-852-9888 or email events@bigredbus.com. To book a Gondola ride, visit gondolagetawayinc.com . We’d be remiss, not to mention the other beautiful neighborhood nestled just steps away from Venice Beach. There is something so charming about shimmering lights over the neighborhood’s wooden framed bridges. Inspired by Venice, Italy, these man-made canals are a cozy display of Christmas lights where residents light up their homes and even some small boats that transform the area into a holiday paradise. It’s perfect for a nice winter stroll by the water. Don’t miss the Venice Canals Christmas Boat Parade on Sunday, Dec. 8, at 4:30 p.m. The annual tradition since the ’80s is a community celebration that showcases some of the city’s best-decorated boats. Where: Right off 25th St., Venice Beach. When: Now through Dec. 29. While caroling may not be as prominent as it once was, there are still ways to enjoy those holiday jingles alongside some Christmas lights. This Orange County neighborhood allows visitors to drive-thru and tune into 89.1 FM for Christmas music. Keep up with the Lights on Symphony St Facebook page for the most up-to-date information. Where: 1816 N Symphony St., Anaheim. When: 5-10 p.m. now through Jan 1. Organized by the Upper Hastings Ranch Association (UHRA) for more than 70 years, the neighborhood often drizzles its lawns with faux snow and decked-out decorations with no shortage of Christmas lights, attracting families from near and far to experience the festivities. The organizers’ Facebook page includes videos of live bands and community shows that have occurred in past celebrations. Where: Hastings Ranch Drive and Sierra Madre Blvd, Pasadena. When: 6-11 p.m. Dec. 6 through Dec. 31. The annual holiday tradition features over 125,000 lights, holiday figurines and decorations that bring people to the Inland Empire neighborhood every year. The city of Rancho Cucamonga restricts pedestrian access at this event to ensure safety and crowd control and passed a resolution to make it drive-thru only. Where: Thoroughbred, Sapphire and Jennett Streets, Rancho Cucamonga. When: 5-11 p.m. Dec. 6 through Dec. 24. Curated by Sherman Oaks resident Mike Ziemkowski, Lights on Display returns with an impressive showcase of holiday magic. This display features a combination of computer-controlled lighting, DMX-driven intelligent lights, and synchronized animatronic characters—all set to a festive playlist. Perfect for all ages, this free experience delights visitors Wednesday through Sunday, weather permitting, from November 29 to New Year’s Day. Where : 3901 Longview Valley Rd., Sherman Oaks, CA 91423 When : Wednesdays-Sundays, beginning Nov. 29 through Jan. 1. Hosted at the picturesque King Gillette Ranch, the fifth annual Holiday Road transforms Calabasas into a holiday wonderland. Featuring over 1 million Christmas lights, a mile-long walking trail with over 20 immersive scenes, live Santa, carolers, and festive bars, it’s a must-see event for holiday enthusiasts. New highlights this year include cutting-edge projection mapping, innovative light technology, and exclusive Maker’s Mark and Minus One Nine Six Vodka Seltzer activations. Where : 26800 Mulholland Hwy, Calabasas, CA 91302 When : 5-10 p.m., Nov. 29 through Dec. 28. Celebrate the season in a vibrant display of lights at Sparkle DTLA, where 18 million hues illuminate the night in sync with festive music. Located at The Bloc, this event features one of the city’s largest multi-colored interactive holiday displays, making it a unique experience for all ages. The nightly light show starts at 5 p.m. and runs through December 31. Where : 700 W 7th St., Los Angeles, CA 90017 When : 5-10 p.m., nightly through Dec. 31. Bring the holiday spirit to life at 123 Farm Christmas Nights, where twinkling lights meet festive fun in a charming Christmas Village setting. Stroll the farm while savoring seasonal foods and drinks, surrounded by holiday displays perfect for a family outing. Where : 10600 Highland Springs Ave., Beaumont, CA 92223 When : 5-10 p.m., Tuesdays-Sundays through Dec. 23. Experience a mile of magic on Christmas Tree Lane in Altadena, where towering cedar trees are adorned with twinkling lights and festive music fills the air. Beginning December 7 at 6 p.m., this annual tradition transforms Santa Rosa Avenue into a glowing wonderland, perfect for a stroll or a drive. Where : Santa Rosa Ave., between Altadena Dr. & Woodbury Rd., Altadena, CA 91003 When : Nightly starting Dec. 7. Related ArticlesVANCOUVER — Online predators are becoming increasingly resourceful in trolling media platforms where children gravitate, prompting an explosion in police case loads, said an officer who works for the RCMP Integrated Child Exploitation Unit in British Columbia. Data show the problem spiked during COVID-19 when children began spending more time online — but rates did not wane as police anticipated after lockdowns ended. In B.C., they soared, almost quadrupling from 2021 to 2023. Const. Solana Pare is now warning exploitation of children is likely here to stay, as a technological race between police and predators gains momentum. "Technology is becoming more and more available, and online platforms and social media sites are being used by children younger and younger, which provides an opportunity for predators to connect with them," Pare said in an interview. Police say child exploitation cases in B.C. went from about 4,600 in 2021 to 9,600 in 2022 to 15,920 reports last year. The upwards trend is seen nationally, too. Statistics Canada says the rate of online child sexual exploitation reported to police rose by 58 per cent from 2019 to 2022, and police data show cases have continued to rise. The RCMP's National Child Exploitation Crime Centre reported that from April 1, 2023, to March 31, 2024, it received 118,162 reports of suspected online child sexual exploitation offences — a 15 per cent increase compared with the previous year. Online child sexual exploitation, Pare explained, includes offences such as sextortion, child luring and the creation or distribution of sexually explicit images of a minor. "We don't see these types of reports going away," Pare said. "We only see them increasing because the use of electronic devices and social media, and kids being online earlier and earlier is becoming more common. There's going to be more opportunity for predators to target children online." Monique St. Germain, general counsel for the Canadian Centre for Child Protection, said the most common type of child luring is communicating with a youth online in order get them to produce sexual abuse material. She said "the pandemic accelerated those types of cases, and it hasn't slowed down." "The tools (Canadian authorities) have to deal with this type of behaviour are inadequate for the scope and the scale of what's going on," she said. THE RISE OF 'SEXTORTION' Online exploitation gained international attention in 2015 in the case of Port Coquitlam, B.C., teenager, Amanda Todd, who died by suicide after being blackmailed and harassed online by a man for years, starting when she was 12. The month before the 15-year-old died, she uploaded a nine-minute video using a series of flash cards detailing the abuse she experienced by the stranger and how it had affected her life. It's been viewed millions of times. Dutch national Aydin Coban was extradited to Canada for trial and, in October 2022, he was convicted of charges including the extortion and harassment of Todd. Since then, the term "sextortion" has made its way into the vernacular as more cases come to light. Among them was Carson Cleland, a 12-year-old Prince George, B.C., boy who died by suicide in October 2023 after falling victim to the crime. In New Brunswick that same month, 16-year-old William Doiron took his own life after falling victim to a global sextortion scheme. Mounties across Canada have issued news releases warning of increased cases in their communities, noting that the consequences for the victims can include self-harm and suicide. St. Germain said technology, such as artificial intelligence, is also becoming more user-friendly. "The existence of that technology and its ease of use and ready accessibility is a problem, and it is going to be an increasingly large problem as we move forward," she said. Pare said police are also adapting to technological advancements in order to keep up with the ever-changing online landscape. "Police are constantly obtaining training on digital technologies to increase our knowledge and understanding of all the intricacies involving their use and how to capture any digital evidence," she said. Pare said the true rates of the crime are impossible to determine, but pointed to increased social awareness and legislation across North America around mandatory reporting of child abuse material from social media companies as a potential reason for the increase. It's not going undetected any longer, she said. "Additionally, there's been a lot of use in artificial intelligence to detect child exploitation materials within those platforms." Pare said "it's up to each individual platform" to ensure there is no child sexual abuse material on their sites or apps. "With mandatory reporting, it's putting the onus back on the electronic service providers to ensure they have measures in place to prevent this from happening, and if it is happening that it is being reported," she said. "That being said, there are times when things don't get located." That is why the Canadian Centre for Child Protection has been advocating for the adoption of the Online Harms Bill that the federal government introduced in February, St. Germain said. "It's shocking that up until now, we've relied on companies to self regulate, meaning we've just relied on them to do the right thing," she said. "What we are seeing in terms of the number of offences and in terms of all the harm that is happening in society as a result of online platforms is completely tied to the decision not to regulate. We need to have rules in any sector, and this sector is no different." 'CANADA IS REALLY BEHIND' The Online Harms Bill covers seven types of harms, from non-consensual sharing of intimate images to content that can be used to bully a child. Earlier this month, Justice Minister Arif Virani announced the Liberal government will split the bill into two parts: dealing with keeping children safe online, and combating predators and issues related to revenge pornography. “We are putting our emphasis and prioritization and our time and efforts on the first portion of the bill,” Virani told reporters on Dec. 5. Such measures would include a new Digital Safety Commission of Canada, which would compel social media companies to outline how they plan to reduce the risks their platforms pose to users, particularly minors. It would have the power to levy fines and evaluate companies’ digital safety plans. St. Germain said such a split "makes sense," noting that most objections to the bill are related to changes to the Criminal Code and not measures around curbing harms to children. "There obviously are differences of opinion in terms of what is the best way forward, and what kind of regulatory approach makes sense, and who should the regulator be, but there does seem to be consensus on the idea that we need to do more in terms of protecting children online," she said, adding that the organization is still in support of the second half of the bill. She said the United Kingdom previously passed its own Online Safety Act that will come into effect in 2025, which includes requiring social media firms to protect children from content such as self-harm material, pornography and violent content. Failure to do so will result in fines. "Canada is really behind," she said. "The amount of information that has come out of the U.K., the amount of time and care and attention that their legislatures have paid to this issue is really quite remarkable, and we really hope that Canada steps up and does something for Canadian children soon." In the absence of national legislation, province's have filled the void. In January, B.C. enacted the Intimate Images Protection Act, providing a path for victims to have online photos, videos or deep fakes expeditiously removed. Individuals are fined up to $500 per day and websites up to $5,000 a day if they don't comply with orders to stop distributing images that are posted without consent. B.C.'s Ministry of the Attorney General said that as of Dec. 11, the Civil Resolution Tribunal had received a total of 199 disputes under the Intimate Images Protection Act. It said the Intimate Images Protection Service had served more than 240 clients impacted by the non-consensual distribution of intimate images, adding that four awards of $5,000 each and one for $3,000 had been supplied as of mid-December. Nova Scotia, Manitoba, Prince Edward Island, New Brunswick, Newfoundland and Labrador, Alberta and Saskatchewan have also enacted legislation targeting unauthorized distribution of intimate images. St. Germain said the use of provincial powers is also necessary, but it's not enough. "A piece of provincial legislation is going to be very difficult to be effective against multiple actors in multiple countries," she said, noting that the online crime is borderless. "We need something bigger — more comprehensive. We need to use all tools in the tool box." This report by The Canadian Press was first published Dec. 29, 2024. Brieanna Charlebois, The Canadian Press