Europol Launches Project COMPASS to Disrupt ‘The Com’ Cybercrime Network Targeting Minors

Gbhackers •Divya • July 27, 2026

Europol has launched Project COMPASS, a coordinated transnational initiative aimed at disrupting “The Com,” a highly dangerous cybercrime and nihilistic extremist network that systematically targets minors and vulnerable young people across digital platforms. The Com operates as a sprawling transnational virtual network (TVN), utilizing social media, messaging apps, music platforms, and online games to recruit, […]

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Europol Disrupts The Com Cybercrime Network Targeting Minors Europol flagged 4,340 URLs linked to The Com, a cybercrime network targeting minors, during a crackdown in June and July 2026. The Com recruits young members for illicit activities including hacking, swatting, and violent crimes. The initiative is part of Project Compass, launched to disrupt this network's online ecosystem. The flagged content includes violent videos, child sexual abuse material, and manuals for committing violent acts. Investigators from multiple European countries participated in the operation. The Com's activities pose a significant threat to minors, both as victims and perpetrators. Europol has received numerous requests for assistance in investigating related crimes. The network's recruitment tactics exploit social media and gaming platforms to groom vulnerable youth. 2 sources 70

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Project Compass