Organised crime gangs are reportedly exploiting online gaming platforms to recruit minors, according to Andrew McLindon, communications director of An Garda Síochána. Speaking at a roundtable on online safety during the Kennedy summer school in New Ross, Co Wexford, McLindon expressed concern over the trend, particularly affecting vulnerable youth. He noted that these gangs present a glamorous image of criminal life, enticing young individuals with offers of money and weapons for violent acts. McLindon described a disturbing scenario where recruits are promised financial incentives, such as $300, and are instructed to carry out violent acts, including murder, while documenting the events on video. He emphasized the need for immediate action, stating that the situation is “hugely concerning.” Additionally, he highlighted the tactics of nihilistic individuals who target minors through gaming platforms, encouraging self-harm and competition in inflicting harm. To combat these issues, McLindon called for stricter enforcement of regulations on online gaming platforms, suggesting they should be treated as publishers responsible for the content they host. This would facilitate investigations by law enforcement, as current regulations only hold platforms accountable once harmful content is reported. The urgency of the matter is underscored by recent research from NGO CyberSafeKids, which found that a significant percentage of children aged 8 to 12 own smartphones, with many experiencing distressing online interactions. Dr. Niall Muldoon, Ombudsman for Children, advocated for incorporating children’s rights into digital policy, while Dr. Gillian Kennedy from Transparency International cautioned against reactionary measures like social media bans, emphasizing the importance of education over exclusion. Prepared and Edited by AboMatrix