04/05/2026
🌐 Europol has released the 2026 edition of the Internet Organised Crime Threat Assessment ( ), providing an in-depth look at the evolving cybercrime landscape in the European Union.
The report, "How encryption, proxies, and AI are expanding cybercrime," highlights the accelerating pace and sophistication of cyber threats, emphasising the need for enhanced law enforcement capabilities and international cooperation.
Key findings include:
🔹 The dark web's resilience and fragmentation, posing challenges for investigators.
🔹 The increasing use of cryptocurrencies in facilitating cybercrime.
🔹 AI-driven online fraud schemes and the role of caller ID spoofing and SIM farms.
🔹 The persistent threat of ransomware and state-sponsored hybrid threats.
🔹 The alarming rise in online child sexual exploitation and the role of E2EE messaging apps.
The IOCTA 2026 serves as a crucial resource for law enforcement agencies, policymakers, and industry stakeholders. It offers detailed analyses, case studies, and recommendations to stay ahead of the curve in the fight against cybercrime.
➡️ Learn more in our press release: https://www.europol.europa.eu/media-press/newsroom/news/new-2026-iocta-highlights-sophisticated-tactics-and-emerging-challenges-in-digital-landscape