Maya Lahav

DPhil Researcher | Oxford University
Online Exploitation • Tech & Crime

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About

A DPhil candidate in Criminology at the University of Oxford, specialising in the integration of technology into criminal innovation.Previously led the Human Exploitation Department at a high-tech company, served as Head of Section in the Office for Cyber and Information Security at Denmark’s Ministry of Defense, and worked on human trafficking mitigation in Nepal. Holds degrees from Oxford, Edinburgh, and Copenhagen University.

Research

The PhD research data so far has already helped consult the UK Home Office, the European Commission, the Swedish Police Authority, and as part of a journalistic investigation by the Guardian.As traffickers increasingly migrate online, their methods evolve faster than our laws and platforms can respond. My DPhil explores how sex traffickers leverage social media and digital tools. Recognising how traffickers embed themselves within digital systems is essential for exposing the mechanisms that enable exploitation and sustain illicit markets in the digital age. My work aims to inform tech regulation and public policy with a deep understanding of criminal innovation.

Recent Engagements

Support My Work

Seeking funding partners and collaborators to support my doctoral research and scale its impact.
If you are an organisation, foundation, tech company, or policymaker invested in ethical technology, digital safety, or anti-trafficking efforts, let's connect.