The Durham Regional Police Service (DRPS) is alerting parents, caregivers, and community members to an increase in online threats involving coordinated groups known as “The Com” (short for the Community). “The Com” is a network of online predators who use grooming, manipulation, coercion, and intimidation to exploit young people, which can lead to violent and/or criminal behaviour. Offenders often build trust, create secrecy through fear or shame, and pressure victims into harmful or unsafe activities. These groups target children and youth aged 8 to 17 across popular online platforms, including Discord, Telegram, Snapchat, Roblox, Minecraft, Twitch, and Steam. These online predators operate using the following tactics: - Building trust through friendship or romantic attention - Manipulating youth using fear, guilt, or intimidation - Coercing victims into harmful or unsafe activities, including: o Creating or sharing inappropriate and exploitative images or videos o Engaging in self-harm or harm toward others or animals o Displaying concerning usernames, symbols, or messages o Coercing children to participate in crimes—such as hoax 9‑1‑1 calls (swatting), online attacks, or sharing harmful content—often without realizing the seriousness of what they’re being manipulated into. - Forcing compliance through threats such as exposing private information, doxing, or swatting. DRPS has recently responded to a number of incidents in the community that are believed to be linked to this online predatory group. Parents and caregivers are encouraged to watch for patterns or clusters of the following behaviours: - Use of encrypted apps (e.g., Discord, Telegram) without parental knowledge - Withdrawal, secrecy, mood changes, or declining academic performance - Increased or secretive use of phones or electronic devices Interest in extreme or harmful online ideologies - New online contacts your child seems unusually attached to—or afraid of While one of these signs may not be of concern, multiple indicators together may warrant attention. You can help protect your child by talking to them about the risks of sharing personal information or images online. Ask direct, non-judgmental questions about the platforms they use and the individuals they interact with. Ensure you have access to your child’s online platforms and regularly review their activity. Pay close attention to platforms with chat or group features. If you notice any concerning online activity or individuals on online platforms that may pose a safety risk, report it to DRPS at 1-888-579-1520. For more information, please visit drps.ca/onlinesafety -30-