Online network lures children into chat groups

Online perpetrators are targeting children and teenagers through social media, gaming platforms and messaging services, ORF reported, citing Austria’s Federal Criminal Police Office. Upper Austria’s state councillor for child and youth protection, Martin Winkler of the ÖVP, warned about the international online network “The Com”.

The network is particularly active in chat groups and on online platforms. Those affected are often between eight and 17 years old. According to the Federal Criminal Police Office, perpetrators specifically seek out young people in difficult situations and monitor their online behaviour.

Communication takes place across different platforms. Perpetrators initially build trust by offering attention and emotional support. They then collect personal information and move conversations to private or encrypted channels.

Pressure and blackmail

Later, perpetrators use threats and blackmail to pressure their victims, according to the Federal Criminal Police Office. Victims may be persuaded to create intimate content, harm themselves or carry out violence against other people or animals.

Known subgroups of the network include “764”, “CVLT”, “Harm Nation” and “Brotherhood of Blood”.

Winkler said on Wednesday that parents, schools and youth workers needed to understand the phenomenon and remain vigilant. Perpetrators initially make young people feel understood and accepted, he said, before abusing that trust.

The state of Upper Austria points to workshops on the safe use of digital media. Programmes including “Smartphone but safely”, “Fairness online” and “Naked online” are aimed at schools and youth organisations. They address cyber-grooming, sextortion and digital boundary violations, with the aim of strengthening media skills and informing young people about online risks.

Christa Pacher-Gratzer, head of the youth division at the state of Upper Austria, said bans alone would not protect children. They also needed to learn how to recognise manipulative contacts and how to respond.

The Federal Criminal Police Office advises parents to talk regularly with their children about their online experiences and to set clear rules for apps, games and social networks. Warning signs can include withdrawal, unusual secrecy or new and unfamiliar online contacts.

In suspected cases, those affected should preserve evidence, block the perpetrators and contact the police quickly. The Federal Criminal Police Office said swift action could protect children and teenagers. Further information is available from the office and the Saferinternet.at portal.