Humberside Police has identified a current and concerning online trend commonly referred to as “Com Networks.” These are online community groups made up of individuals who promote and engage in extreme and harmful behaviours.
Offending linked to these groups spans multiple crime types. A significant feature is the coercion and manipulation of group members, often encouraging them to self-harm, attempt suicide, or carry out abusive acts against themselves or others. These acts are frequently filmed or live‑streamed to the group, with perpetrators gaining status or “kudos” within the network for directing or escalating the abuse.
Children and young people are the primary targets, particularly younger individuals, females, and those who are vulnerable or isolated. Grooming, emotional manipulation, and pressure to comply are common tactics used by group members.
There are also rivalries between Com Networks, where illegal or harmful material is deliberately shared within opposing groups as a tactic to cause disruption or trigger law‑enforcement intervention, including attempts to have rival platforms taken down.
Awareness of this behaviour is essential for professionals working with children, young people, and vulnerable individuals, to enable early identification, safeguarding, and appropriate reporting.