The Molly Rose Foundation (MRF) has raised alarms about a hacking community known as the Com, which is preying on vulnerable children for sexual exploitation and other forms of abuse. This warning comes in light of a report produced in collaboration with online risk consultancy Resolver, detailing the severe risks posed by these networks. MRF’s chief executive, Andy Burrows, emphasized the necessity for immediate action, describing the situation as the most pressing threat to children online.
The report outlines that the Com, comprised primarily of teenagers and young adults, operates across various platforms such as Discord and Telegram, engaging in harmful activities including cyberbullying and self-harm promotion. With no formal recruitment process, members exploit online communities dedicated to self-harm and eating disorders, often masquerading as support groups.
One alarming case mentioned involved a vulnerable adult who was manipulated into committing self-harm during a live stream. The MRF is calling for a unified effort from governments, technology firms, and law enforcement to combat the growing influence and danger of the Com.