https://www.theregister.com/2025/10/29/afp_ai_commissioner_barrett_speech
The Australian Federal Police (AFP) has revealed plans to develop an AI system capable of interpreting the emojis and slang used by “crimefluencers” – a term used to describe decentralised online crime networks and individuals who glorify criminal activities online.
Commissioner Krissy Barrett, in a recent speech, highlighted the emergence of these loosely affiliated groups, often attracting young members through a “twisted” gamification system that rewards the provision of content depicting extreme acts of depravity and sadism. These groups, which have been identified across Australia and internationally, are known to target pre-teen and teenage girls, presenting a significant threat to community safety.
To combat this growing challenge, the AFP is establishing a task force and is developing a prototype AI tool that will analyse encrypted communications and chat groups to identify patterns of sadistic online exploitation. By interpreting the emojis and slang used by Generation Z and Alpha, the authorities hope to stay one step ahead of these criminal networks and disrupt their activities. This innovative approach, while controversial, is seen as a necessary measure to protect vulnerable individuals from the pervasive influence of “crimefluencers” in the digital age.