Sarnia Police Service is echoing a warning from the RCMP about violent online groups largely made up of youth who seek to victimize other youth.
The RCMP recently shared information about groups such as “The COM,” described as virtual networks of groups and individuals engaged in illicit activities that glorify child sexual abuse and exploitation materials, pedophilia, violence, cruelty and gore.
Police say the groups operate in widely accessible online spaces, often using gaming platforms as a gateway to build relationships with victims before moving contact to other platforms, including social media, apps and online games such as Roblox, Steam, Telegram, Discord, TikTok, Instagram, Snapchat and Twitch.
Because many members of these groups are youth themselves, police say young people are more likely to trust them when contacted online. Victims are encouraged to take part in acts that increasingly shame, incriminate and isolate them, which can include recording or photographing themselves or others in sexually explicit poses, committing sexual acts, sexually exploiting others, harming or killing animals or family pets, self-harming, attempting suicide or committing acts of violence. Children and youth have also been pressured to carve online names or handles of group members into their skin or write them on signs, sometimes in blood.
Sarnia police say it is important for parents and caregivers to monitor their child’s online activity, have open conversations about online safety practices and maintain open communication about online dangers.
The service is encouraging parents, caregivers and anyone in a leadership role involving children and youth, including teachers and coaches, to visit the RCMP’s website to learn more about these groups, how they operate, warning signs and how to prevent online victimization.
Anyone who believes someone is being victimized online, or is in immediate danger, is asked to call 911.
