From 15 to 19 September 2025, Europol supported the fourth edition of the EMPACT Trafficking in Human Beings (THB) Hackathon, an international action week targeting human trafficking facilitated online. Led by Dutch authorities with support from Germany and the United Kingdom, the operation brought together 73 specialists from 26 countries, with Eurojust providing judicial coordination and analytical support.

Scope and Results of the Operation

During the week, experts monitored social media platforms, marketplaces, dating apps, job portals, escort websites, and instant messaging services to detect individuals enabling sexual and labour exploitation. The investigation uncovered trafficking-related activity across 44 online platforms and produced the following results:

Authorities observed that escort agencies dominate online sexual services and operate across multiple EU countries, often coordinated by a small number of organised criminal groups. Suspected victims of sexual exploitation were frequently accompanied by a male controller.

The operation also revealed new trends in online trafficking:

International Collaboration and EMPACT Hackathon Background

Europol provided operational support on site and analytical assistance from its headquarters in The Hague. Eurojust ensured prompt engagement of judicial authorities beyond the Dutch system.

The EMPACT THB Hackathon, first organised in 2022, has run for four consecutive years and has become a key tool for investigators. It enables early identification of potential victims, strengthens cross-border online monitoring, and enhances detection of trafficking networks, generating new investigations.

Global Nature of Online Human Trafficking

Human trafficking is increasingly facilitated via online channels. Criminal networks exploit fake job offers, manipulative online relationships, and live-streamed sexual exploitation content to recruit victims worldwide. A stronger, more visible law enforcement presence online is essential to prevent criminal networks from operating unchecked on encrypted apps, social media, and the dark web.

Participating Authorities

(*Designation of Kosovo follows UNSCR 1244/99 and ICJ opinion on independence.)

About EMPACT

The European Multidisciplinary Platform Against Criminal Threats (EMPACT) focuses on combating serious international crime affecting the EU. Running in four-year cycles, it strengthens intelligence sharing, strategic and operational cooperation among national authorities, EU institutions, and international partners, addressing the most significant crime threats across Europe.