The Com is a loosely organized network of digital users—mostly English-speaking teens—who participate in a range of criminal activities. It includes three main sub-groups:
-
IRL Com: Organizes real-world physical attacks for payment (referred to as Violence-as-a-Service).
-
Hacker Com: Linked to cyberattacks like DDoS and ransomware.
-
Extortion Com: Known for online blackmail and child exploitation.
Note for Parents & Educators: This article contains descriptions of real-world risks. We present this information solely for educational awareness and prevention.
One of the most shocking findings in the FBI’s report is that IRL Com publicly promotes “services” with a price list, including:
-
Online harassment and intimidation
-
Stalking and location-based targeting
-
Real-life threats and physical intimidation
These offers are promoted on encrypted apps and social media, sometimes disguised as “missions” or “challenges” to attract young users.
The U.K.’s National Crime Agency (NCA) also released a warning in March, confirming that teenage boys are the primary targets for recruitment. These groups appeal to youth through:
Once involved, teens can be manipulated or blackmailed into more serious crimes.
This isn’t just about cyberbullying or risky behavior. It's about a new criminal model that combines online anonymity with real-world danger.
At Cyber Sqool, we’ve seen how easily kids fall into traps like:
-
Fake job offers promising fast cash
-
Online dares that escalate into real violence
-
Swatting and prank services sold as entertainment
1. Start conversations early.
Teach kids that online actions have real consequences, and not everyone is who they claim to be.
2. Monitor social and gaming activity.
Watch for sudden secrecy, new “friends,” or hidden apps like Telegram or Wickr.
3. Report suspicious content.
Encourage children to report anything that feels wrong or threatening.
4. Use resources like Cyber Sqool.
Our animated courses and interactive missions teach kids how to recognize red flags, protect themselves, and build digital resilience.
The internet isn’t just a playground—it’s also a recruitment ground for cybercrime. But with the right tools, families and schools can fight back.
Stay informed. Stay protected. Stay Cyber Smart.
Join Cyber Sqool today and give your children the power to navigate the digital world safely.
