IOCTA 2026 Report Warns of Rising AI-Driven Cybercrime and Dark Web Threats

The IOCTA 2026 report from Europol maps evolving cyber threats across Europe, highlighting the rise of AI-driven fraud, persistent and fragmented dark web marketplaces, widespread use of cryptocurrencies for laundering, an increase in ransomware and data extortion tactics, and growing online child sexual exploitation; the report stresses the need for improved investigative capabilities and stronger cross-sector law enforcement collaboration.