ISD’s Milo Comerford (Senior Director of Policy & Research, Counter-Extremism) joined an expert panel at the UK Parliament on Tuesday, hosted by Member of Parliament Jess Phillips, to discuss Sky News’ new documentary on The Com—a violent online network targeting children and young people—and how to prevent the growing threat posed by nihilistic violence subcultures. 

Speaking about how to reach and support victims, Milo described The Com’s “whole methodology” as “throw(ing) people into a vortex where they can’t escape”. He emphasised the importance of showing children “there is a way out […] we are there to pull you out”. 

The event brought together experts from across online safety, law enforcement, politics and journalism to talk about the film’s findings and what more can be done by technology companies, as covered in Sky News’ live blog. 

As online subcultures of nihilistic violence, including the wider Com and 764 networks, continue to pose complex challenges for prevention and safeguarding, ISD’s Spotting the Signs guide examines how these communities operate and offers practical guidance for parents, teachers and frontline practitioners. 

The documentary is available to stream on Sky News.