Crackdown on ‘The Com’ Network

Europol’s Project Compass has marked its first year with significant strides against ‘The Com’, a decentralized extremist network. This collaboration, involving law enforcement from 28 countries, including EU states and nations like the USA, Canada, and Australia, focuses on dismantling groups that exploit minors through various online platforms.

Since its inception in January 2025, Project Compass has seen substantial operational achievements. These include the safeguarding of four victims, the arrest of 30 perpetrators, and the identification of numerous others involved in targeting vulnerable individuals. The project also facilitated nine joint awareness activities, underscoring the importance of international cooperation in combating these threats.

Anna Sjöberg, the head of Europol’s European Counter Terrorism Centre, emphasized the project’s role in early interventions. “These networks target children in spaces where they feel safe,” she stated, highlighting the necessity of cross-border efforts to close the gaps exploited by such groups. Project Compass not only responds to immediate threats but also contributes to the broader EU Agenda on preventing and countering terrorism and violent extremism. This initiative aims to anticipate threats, prevent radicalization, and ensure a coordinated response to protect European values and its citizens.

For more details or to stay updated on Project Compass, individuals can subscribe to Europol’s email alerts, ensuring they remain informed about the ongoing efforts to combat digital and physical terrorism threats across Europe.