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NCMEC Data Collection

The methods by which the National Center for Missing & Exploited Children collects and processes data on missing children cases, including the use of a 24-hour hotline and partner reporting channels.

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Jan 29, 2026

How does NCMEC define and count a 'missing child' in its datasets?

treats a “” not as a single legal status but as any child for whom NCMEC has been asked to provide assistance—typically through reports made by families, law enforcement, or child-welfare professional...