Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) say they have identified the person behind a series of swatting calls in Haldimand County earlier this month, linking the incidents to a dangerous online group known as “The Com” or “764.”
The Swatting Incidents
Police said multiple false threats were made over two days.
On Sept. 2, a bomb threat was called in to a home near Jarvis.
On Sept. 3, another threat targeted a school, forcing a lockdown.
Both threats were later found to be unfounded.
On Sept. 19, investigators confirmed the caller was under 18. They determined the individual was coerced into making the calls and will not face charges.
Connection to “The Com”
The OPP said the swatting calls were linked to “The Com,” a group that exploits youth online. Unlike traditional cybercrime, its members are motivated by peer recognition rather than money.
Tactics include:
Swatting and doxing (sharing personal data)
Threats and intimidation
Coercing victims into harmful or illegal acts
Police warned these actions can escalate quickly, causing severe emotional, physical, and psychological harm.
Police Warnings
“Swatting is not a prank – it’s a crime that puts lives at risk,” said Insp. Andrew Fox of Haldimand OPP. He urged parents to talk with their children and recognize the risks.
The RCMP describes “The Com” as violent, manipulating victims through platforms such as Discord, Telegram, Roblox, Minecraft, Twitch, and Steam. The group pressures youth into acts ranging from self-harm to creating exploitation material.
Resources
Police encourage families to review the RCMP’s online safety resources to learn warning signs and help protect children from coercive online groups.
