How Online Predator Networks like ‘The Com’ Coerce Kids into Crime

Predators are no longer working alone. A growing number of online predator groups are recruiting and coercing children themselves, turning victims into the people who carry out the harm. Police in Durham Region, Canada, recently warned parents about one such network they call “The Com” — short for “The Community.”

The group targets kids as young as eight. According to investigators, offenders use Discord, Telegram, Snapchat, Roblox, Minecraft, Twitch, and Steam to reach children and teens. They build trust through friendship or romance, then rely on fear, guilt, and intimidation to keep their victims quiet. Victims are pressured into criminal acts like hoax 911 calls, swatting, online attacks, and sharing exploitative images or content.

The secrecy is the most dangerous part. Encouraged to hide their activity from parents, victims often don’t realize how serious the situation has become. They feel trapped — ashamed, threatened, or afraid that exposing private information will get them in trouble. That isolation is exactly what the network depends on.

Watch for multiple warning signs. One change alone isn’t cause for alarm, but a cluster often is. Be alert to a child suddenly using encrypted apps like Discord or Telegram without your knowledge, a sharp increase in secretive phone or device use, mood changes, or a drop in school performance. Ask direct, non-judgmental questions about the apps they use and who they talk to.

Most important: keep the conversation open. Remind your child that they can tell you anything without fear of punishment, and that no one online has the right to keep secrets with them or demand things from them. Predator networks thrive on silence — honest, regular conversation takes away their power.

Durham Regional Police recently issued this warning to the public. You can read their full report here: “What is ‘The Com’? Youth coerced into violent acts online, police warn”.

If you suspect a child is being targeted or groomed by someone online, report it to NCMEC’s CyberTipline at cybertipline.org or contact local law enforcement right away. You can also report a predator through our site to help protect other families.