From 15 to 19 September 2025, the fourth edition of the EMPACT Trafficking in Human Beings (THB) Hackathon brought together 73 experts to monitor and investigate digital platforms suspected of enabling human trafficking. The initiative, coordinated by the Dutch authorities with support from Germany, the United Kingdom and Europol, focused on detecting indicators of exploitation across a wide range of online environments, from social media and dating apps to job portals and escort sites. Eurojust also provided analytical and judicial support to ensure swift coordination among participating countries.

During the week-long operation, investigators checked 53 platforms and found signs of human trafficking on 44 of them. In total, 33 potential victims and 31 suspected perpetrators were identified. Belgian specialists took part in the coordinated action. The operation revealed that escort agencies play a dominant role in the market for sexual services across several EU countries, often controlled by organised criminal groups. Experts also observed the use of artificial intelligence to generate deceptive advertisements and an increased reliance on cryptocurrency-based payment systems.

The findings have prompted renewed attention to the growing online dimension of human trafficking. Law enforcement officials highlighted the need for a stronger and more visible presence on the internet to counteract criminal networks exploiting encrypted platforms and the dark web.

For further details, please read the press release from Europol.