Europol recently announced the success of a year long operation targeting an online crime group reportedly focused on exploiting minors across the EU. Authorities claim the group sought to recruit minors through various online means. Law enforcement agencies from across the EU, along with some neighboring countries, collaborated in the operation, leading to 30 arrests.
What is "The Com"
According to Europol, "The Com" is an online network that primarily recruits young people, encouraging them to commit sabotage and other violent acts. From digital attacks on infrastructure and commerce to acts of arson, the group reportedly employed a variety of methods to recruit members. Reports also claim that the group was involved in sextortion campaigns targeting minors and even encouraged self-harm. In June 2025, the FBI released a report warning parents about the group, describing it as one of the most urgent threats to young people.
The Operation
Headed by Europol's European Counter-Terrorism Unit, the operation by the name "Project Compass" began in January 2025. Europol states that 28 countries participated in the operation. According to their report, during the operation's duration, authorities arrested 30 perpetrators, rescued 4 victims, identified 62 other victims (either fully or partially), and identified 179 perpetrators (either fully or partially).
The Com group was reportedly highly scattered, decentralized, and hard to track down. It is howver notable that Europol claims to have identified so many perpetrators despite the relatively small number of arrests. This suggests that the operation is still be ongoing, with more arrests likely to follow. Europol also published a report warning the public about the rapid rise of online campaigns targeting minors and the associated risks.
Some More Background
Given the nature of these criminals, one might assume that a foreign actor is involved, but there’s a large chance this is not the case at all. Europol makes no mention of foreign involvement. Interestingly, another group, known as "764," which first appeared in 2021, had a very similar start to "The Com." This group also exploited minors and encouraged heinous acts. The FBI later arrested two Americans behind that network.
Conclusion
This is one of those rare operations where everyone can stand with law enforcement. Given the disgusting nature of these criminals, it’s a good thing they’ve been removed from society. With many perpetrators reportedly identified, the operation is likely still ongoing, and more arrests are expected.
The key here is to stay focused on the facts and remain cautious, as these operations come at a time when digital identification is being pushed more aggressively than ever.
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