Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) are investigating a growing network of online exploitation targeting children, with recent activity linked to a group known as “The Com” – a shorthand for “The Community.” The investigation, centered in the Durham Region, has prompted warnings to parents about the potential for grooming and exploitation occurring on popular online platforms.
The Durham Regional Police Service (DRPS) has been actively investigating a series of incidents involving child exploitation, leading them to identify “The Com” as a central organizing force. According to police, the group operates by building trust with young people online before escalating to manipulative and coercive tactics. This includes leveraging fear, shame, or a desire for acceptance to maintain secrecy and compel participation in harmful activities.
The scope of the investigation extends across multiple popular online platforms frequented by children, and teenagers. Authorities have identified Discord, Telegram, Snapchat, Roblox, Minecraft, Twitch, and Steam as key areas where predators associated with “The Com” are actively seeking out victims, including children as young as eight years old. The tactics employed involve posing as friends or romantic interests to establish rapport, then exploiting vulnerabilities through emotional manipulation.
The alleged activities range from the sharing of inappropriate images and videos to coercing children into performing harmful acts, both to themselves and others. Investigators report instances of victims being pressured into participating in “swatting” – making false emergency calls to trigger a police response at someone’s home – and engaging in online harassment campaigns. The group is also accused of using threats of doxing (revealing personal information online) and the release of private content to maintain control over victims.
The police investigation has uncovered a pattern of escalating demands and control. Victims are reportedly coerced into sharing increasingly sensitive information and participating in increasingly risky behaviors. The use of encrypted messaging apps is a common tactic to conceal communication and evade detection.
Authorities are urging parents to be vigilant and proactive in monitoring their children’s online activity. Key warning signs include a child becoming withdrawn or secretive, exhibiting changes in mood or behavior, experiencing a decline in academic performance, or demonstrating an increased interest in encrypted messaging applications. Parents are also advised to be aware of any unusual usernames or symbols used by their children online, as well as any references to harmful or disturbing content.
The DRPS recommends that parents have open and honest conversations with their children about the risks of online interactions. This includes educating them about the importance of protecting personal information, recognizing manipulative tactics, and reporting any suspicious or uncomfortable encounters. Parents are also encouraged to familiarize themselves with the privacy settings and safety features available on the platforms their children use.
Specifically, police advise parents to establish clear boundaries regarding online activity, including time limits and acceptable content. They also recommend regularly reviewing their children’s online accounts and contacts, and encouraging them to come forward with any concerns without fear of judgment. Maintaining open communication and fostering a trusting relationship are crucial for protecting children from online exploitation.
The investigation into “The Com” is ongoing, and police are working to identify and prosecute all individuals involved. The DRPS is collaborating with other law enforcement agencies to share information and coordinate efforts to disrupt the group’s activities and protect vulnerable children. The recent surge in reported cases underscores the growing threat of online exploitation and the need for increased awareness and preventative measures.
Parents are encouraged to report any suspected cases of child exploitation to their local police service or to the Canadian Centre for Child Protection. Resources and support are available to help families navigate the challenges of online safety and protect their children from harm.
