Business

Empowering child protection in Sri Lanka: The fight against cybercrime and AI exploitation

Published

1 year ago

2024/10/24

Children of Sri Lanka

In an increasingly digital world, child protection has evolved into one of the most pressing challenges faced by governments, law enforcement agencies, and civil society. In Sri Lanka, the growing incidence of cybercrime targeting children, coupled with new threats posed by advancements in artificial intelligence (AI) and automation, has brought the issue of child safety to the forefront.

At the heart of this effort in Sri Lanka is Mr. Prabath Amila Perera, a recognized cybersecurity researcher and digital forensics expert who has been instrumental in addressing child safety challenges in the digital age. His work, along with a growing body of cybersecurity professionals, highlights the urgent need for a robust framework to protect Sri Lankan children from the dangers posed by cybercrime and artificial intelligence-driven exploitation.

The Rising Threat of Cybercrime Targeting Children

Prabath Amila

Cybercrime is no longer confined to traditional hacking or financial fraud; it has expanded to include a wide array of illegal activities, many of which disproportionately affect children. With the widespread use of mobile devices and internet access, children are increasingly exposed to online risks such as cyberbullying, child exploitation, and exposure to harmful content. The disturbing reality is that the internet has become a tool for criminals to exploit vulnerable individuals, and children are often their primary targets.

In Sri Lanka, the rapid adoption of digital technology has created a fertile ground for such crimes. The growing prevalence of internet-enabled devices among children, including smartphones, tablets, and computers, has increased their susceptibility to online predators. This trend is reflected globally, with cyber predators using sophisticated methods to lure children into harmful situations, from online grooming to the distribution of child sexual abuse material (CSAM).

AI and Automation: A New Frontier of Concern

While cybercrime itself presents significant dangers, the advent of artificial intelligence (AI) and automation has introduced new layers of complexity to child protection. AI-powered technologies, such as deepfakes, can be used to generate hyper-realistic images or videos that could be weaponized for blackmail, exploitation, or abuse. In the context of child protection, AI can exacerbate issues related to the creation and dissemination of CSAM.

Automation and AI are also enabling criminal actors to operate at a scale never seen before. Automated bots, for instance, can scan social media platforms for vulnerable targets, creating vast databases of personal information that can be used for malicious purposes. Moreover, AI algorithms can be used to manipulate children’s behavior online, making them more susceptible to exploitation or harmful content.

In addition to facilitating child exploitation, AI and automation have also made it more challenging for law enforcement agencies to detect and combat such crimes. With the rapid growth of encrypted communications and the dark web, traditional investigative methods often fall short. Thus, while technology has undoubtedly improved our lives, it has also introduced new threats that need urgent attention.

Addressing the Crisis: A Call to Action for Sri Lanka

Recognizing these dangers, Mr. Amila Perera and his peers are advocating for a comprehensive approach to child protection that includes legislative, technological, and educational measures. To combat cybercrime and AI-driven exploitation, Sri Lanka must adopt a multi-faceted strategy that encompasses the following:

Strengthening Laws and Regulations: While Sri Lanka has made progress in child protection laws, there is still a need to introduce stronger legislation that addresses the evolving nature of cybercrime and AI-fueled threats. Laws related to CSAM, child exploitation, and cyberbullying must be updated to reflect modern-day challenges, and enforcement mechanisms must be empowered with adequate resources.

Improving Cybersecurity Infrastructure: In this digital age, it is essential to have strong cybersecurity defenses in place. Public and private organizations, particularly those involved in child protection, need to invest in cutting-edge cybersecurity solutions to identify and mitigate online threats. AI can also be used positively to develop tools that detect harmful content, block abusive behavior, and flag suspicious activity in real-time.

Raising Public Awareness: It is critical to educate parents, teachers, and children about the dangers of the internet. Schools must incorporate cyber literacy into their curriculum, and communities must promote safe online practices. Campaigns that educate the public about emerging AI threats, such as deepfakes and the misuse of automation, will be key to creating a well-informed population capable of protecting itself against new digital risks.

Collaborating with Global Partners: Cybercrime is a transnational issue, and no country can fight it alone. Sri Lanka must strengthen its collaboration with international cybersecurity agencies, child protection organizations, and tech companies. By sharing information, technology, and best practices, Sri Lanka can bolster its defenses against cybercriminals who operate across borders.

The Role of AI in Protecting Children

While AI presents new dangers, it can also be part of the solution. Mr. Amila Perera emphasizes that AI, when used ethically, can be a powerful tool in protecting children from harm. AI-based algorithms can be developed to monitor online behavior, detect inappropriate content, and provide early warnings about potential risks. AI can also assist law enforcement agencies in identifying and prosecuting cybercriminals by analyzing vast amounts of data in real-time.

Tech companies must play a key role in this process by implementing child safety features into their platforms. Automated content filtering, real-time monitoring of interactions, and AI-driven moderation can help make the digital environment safer for children. Additionally, AI tools that detect deepfakes and manipulated content can play a vital role in protecting children from AI-generated exploitation.

A Collaborative Effort for a Safer Future

Child protection in the digital age is not solely the responsibility of government authorities or law enforcement; it is a collective effort that involves educators, parents, tech companies, and cybersecurity experts. In Sri Lanka, Mr. Amila Perera’s leadership and advocacy for child safety in the digital world set an example for how nations can address these challenges effectively.

As Sri Lanka continues to navigate the complexities of a rapidly digitizing world, it must prioritize child safety by integrating AI-driven solutions, enforcing stricter cyber laws, and fostering a culture of cybersecurity awareness. Only through collective action can we ensure that the next generation of children grows up in a digital environment free from harm, abuse, and exploitation.

Prarthana Kodikara

University of Kelaniya

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Business

SriLankan Airlines Update on Middle East Operations

Published

4 mins ago

2026/03/3

Rashi Nihara

03 March 2026; Colombo – As airspace in certain parts of the Middle East continues to remain closed due to the ongoing conflict, the following SriLankan Airlines flights scheduled to operate today have been cancelled:

Flight Route
UL 225 Colombo–Dubai
UL 226 Dubai–Colombo
UL 231 Colombo–Dubai
UL 232 Dubai–Colombo
UL 229 Colombo–Kuwait
UL 230 Kuwait–Colombo
UL 217 Colombo–Doha
UL 218 Doha–Colombo
UL 253 Colombo–Dammam
UL 254 Dammam–Colombo
UL 265 Colombo–Riyadh
UL 266 Riyadh–Colombo

We sincerely appreciate our passengers’ understanding and patience as these cancellations are implemented in the interest of their safety and wellbeing.

For more information, please contact: 1979 (within Sri Lanka); +94 11 777 1979 (international); WhatsApp +94 74 444 1979 (chat only); your travel agent; or visit www.srilankan.com

Business

Middle East escalation sends oil soaring; Sri Lanka faces price shock despite assurances on supply

Published

10 hours ago

2026/03/3

Thilina Walpola

Vessels have been forced to anchor as Iran threatens to close the Strait of Hormuz

Global oil prices surged sharply yesterday following coordinated US and Israel-backed strikes on Iran, and Tehran’s retaliatory attacks targeting US interests in the region, alongside escalating hostilities involving Hezbollah in Lebanon. The renewed instability in the Middle East – the artery of the world’s energy supply – has sent tremors through financial markets and triggered fresh anxiety in oil-importing nations such as Sri Lanka.

Brent crude climbed steeply in early Asian trading, with traders pricing in the risk of supply disruptions through critical maritime chokepoints, particularly the Strait of Hormuz, through which nearly a fifth of global oil passes. Market analysts say the spike reflects not only immediate supply fears but also the potential for prolonged geopolitical tension that could keep prices elevated for months.

Meanwhile, Asian equities reacted nervously to the unfolding crisis. Major indices across the region retreated as investors fled risk assets, concerned that higher energy costs could dampen growth and reignite inflationary pressures.

Asian oil and gas stocks – the only winner in Asian equity markets – rallied strongly, reflecting expectations of higher revenues amid rising crude prices. This divergence of falling broader markets alongside rising oil shares signals investor anticipation of higher inflation and weaker consumer demand in emerging markets like Sri Lanka.

Meanwhile, reports of increased Chinese crude purchases are further compounding market anxiety. If Beijing accelerates buying to secure strategic reserves in anticipation of supply constraints, global prices could climb even further because China’s procurement strategy has great influence on the world oil price.

“Should Chinese demand rise while Middle Eastern exports face disruption, the supply-demand imbalance could tighten considerably, amplifying volatility in global energy markets”, say global energy market analysts.

In Sri Lanka, long queues have begun forming at fuel stations amid fears of shortages and higher pump prices once new shipments arrive. The government has sought to calm public nerves, stating that sufficient stocks are available for approximately one month and that fresh supplies are being sourced from India and Singapore.

Deputy Minister of Tourism, Dr. Ruwan Ranasinghe said that as Sri Lanka imports refined products primarily from India and trading hubs such as Singapore, direct disruptions to Middle Eastern sea routes would not immediately interrupt supply chains. He maintained that there is no cause for panic buying.

In an unusual show of political maturity, Prasad Siriwardena, an Opposition MP from the Samagi Jana Balawegaya (SJB) urged the public to remain calm and refrain from hoarding, warning that artificial shortages could emerge if panic-driven stockpiling spreads.

However, former minister Wimal Weerawansa criticised the government for failing to build a strategic reserve of at least three months, arguing that Sri Lanka’s total dependence on imported fuel leaves it dangerously exposed to prolonged geopolitical shocks.

Weerawansa contended that the government failed to anticipate the likelihood of US-Iran tensions escalating into direct confrontation and should have proactively guided petroleum authorities to secure adequate reserves in advance.

Meanwhile, an independent analyst told this reporter on the condition of anonymity that the global economic spillover could have wide-ranging consequences on Sri Lanka, outlining five factors.

Energy costs that feed into transportation, manufacturing and food prices

Tighter monetary policy risks as the Central Bank may hesitate to cut rates if inflation resurges

Slower growth as consumers and businesses reduce spending when energy costs rise

A widening trade deficit as Sri Lanka would face increased import bills

Pressure on the Rupee as increased dollar outflows for fuel imports could strain foreign exchange reserves

In conclusion, he said, “One can only hope that diplomacy prevails before oil’s surge turns into a sustained economic storm for the global economy.”

by Sanath Nanayakkare

Business

How ‘distant wars can quickly arrive at the domestic pump’

Published

10 hours ago

2026/03/3

Thilina Walpola

Vehicles lining-up for petrol in Colombo as panic buying takes control.

The harsh economic realities behind soothing words

Sri Lanka’s fragile economic recovery faces a renewed external threat as escalating conflict involving Iran sends global oil prices sharply higher, raising concerns over inflation, foreign reserves and fiscal stability.

While authorities insist there is no immediate fuel shortage, economists warn that prolonged instability in the Middle East could trigger a familiar and painful chain reaction in an import-dependent economy still recovering from its worst financial crisis in decades.

The state-run Ceylon Petroleum Corporation (CPC) confirmed that the country currently holds sufficient petrol and diesel stocks for more than a month.

Energy Minister Eng. Kumara Jayakody assured that scheduled shipments remain unaffected and urged the public to refrain from panic buying, warning that artificial demand could disrupt smooth distribution.

But behind those reassurances lies a harsher economic reality: Sri Lanka does not need a physical fuel shortage to suffer — a sustained spike in global crude prices alone could be enough.

Market jitters intensified amid fears that any escalation could threaten shipping through the Strait of Hormuz, the narrow maritime corridor through which a significant share of the world’s oil supply passes daily. Even speculation of disruption has historically been sufficient to push prices sharply upward.

Sri Lanka sources refined fuel from multiple markets, including India and Southeast Asia. However, global benchmark prices ultimately determine import costs. If crude prices remain elevated, the country’s monthly fuel import bill could surge — placing fresh strain on dollar reserves.

Higher oil prices would ripple across the entire economy. Transport, electricity generation, manufacturing, agriculture and food distribution are all energy-sensitive sectors. A sustained price increase could reverse recent gains in inflation control.

The Central Bank of Sri Lanka has worked to stabilise inflation and the rupee through tight monetary discipline. Analysts caution that a renewed oil shock could complicate this effort, widening the trade deficit and pressuring the exchange rate.

“Sri Lanka is structurally vulnerable to energy price shocks. Even without direct supply disruption, higher global prices immediately translate into macroeconomic stress, a senior economic analyst said.

The government is currently operating under strict fiscal consolidation targets as part of its recovery programme. A rising fuel bill could expand subsidy pressures or force politically sensitive fuel price adjustments.

Any increase in administered fuel prices would inevitably feed into cost-of-living pressures, testing public tolerance amid ongoing austerity.

Beyond oil markets, instability in the Middle East carries another risk: remittances. The Gulf region remains a key source of foreign employment for Sri Lankans and a crucial inflow of foreign exchange.

Any economic slowdown or labour disruption in the region could dampen remittance flows, reducing one of the country’s most stable dollar lifelines.

An energy expert said for Sri Lanka, the Iran conflict is not merely a distant geopolitical event. It is a potential economic stress test at a moment when stability remains hard-won.

“Whether this turns into a temporary price spike or a prolonged oil shock will determine how severely it tests the country’s recovery trajectory. For now, policymakers are watching global markets closely — aware that in today’s interconnected economy, distant wars can quickly arrive at the domestic pump.”

By Ifham Nizam