Brussels - The Hague: Europe and the Arabs - Agencies
A report from the European Police Office "Europol" in The Hague warned of the rise of violent online communities targeting children, spreading extremist ideologies and inciting violence and crime. It calls for international vigilance to protect minors from these threats.
According to what was published by the European News Network in Brussels "Euronews", the European Police Office "Europol" issued an intelligence notice warning of the growth of violent online communities dedicated to causing serious harm to children. This strategic report reveals the emergence of digital sects that embrace violence and target minors online, seeking to normalize crime and chaos and incite terrorism.
According to the notice, these communities operate as secret organizations with a hierarchical structure based on the extent of sharing violent content, where the most active members are rewarded with a higher status. The circulated material includes clips of extreme violence, sexual exploitation of children, scenes of murder, and even incitement to mass shootings and bombings.
Catherine de Bolle, Executive Director of Europol, said: “Extremist groups are exploiting the vast potential of digital platforms to spread their destructive ideas, targeting young people and inciting them to commit violent acts in real life. Awareness is the first line of defence. Families, teachers and communities must remain vigilant and strengthen young people’s critical thinking skills to counter online manipulation. International cooperation is urgently needed to combat these serious threats.”
Grooming minors through games and self-help groups The report explained that perpetrators are exploiting online gaming platforms and social media to target children and young people aged 8-17, particularly vulnerable groups such as LGBTI teens, ethnic minorities and those with mental health problems. Perpetrators infiltrate online self-help communities to lure victims under the guise of help and sympathy.
Grooming typically begins with what is known as “love bombing” – showing exaggerated interest in gaining the trust of minors, which is then used to blackmail and coerce them into producing offensive content or committing violent acts. Perpetrators rely on the threat of publishing this content to control victims and subject them to further harmful actions.
Warning signs
The report listed warning signs to watch out for in children's online behavior, as follows:
Excessive secrecy about online activities.
Social isolation and withdrawal.
Noticeable emotional changes.
Interest in harmful or violent content.
Using unfamiliar symbols or language.
Hiding physical signs of harm.
Worrying signs in children's digital activity include:
Unusual interaction on online platforms.
Communication with anonymous parties.
Use of encrypted communications.
Exposure to shocking or disturbing content.
This warning from Europol comes as a wake-up call to families and communities to exercise caution and strengthen oversight of online activities, in addition to intensifying international cooperation to combat this phenomenon and protect future generations from the risks of digital extremism and violence against children.