A surge in online sexual exploitation cases has state lawmakers looking at ways to protect minors on online gaming platforms.

Child advocacy groups say the number of online sexual exploitation cases has increased by nearly 40% in just one year, with experts noting an alarming number of cases stemming from video chat rooms and other gaming platforms.

Legislators examine gaming safety What we know: The Texas House Committee on State Affairs held a hearing in Austin on Tuesday to identify inherent risks to minors and evaluate the effectiveness of platform safety features.