Indonesia reports 620 youths exposed to online violent extremism

Indonesia's National Counterterrorism Agency (BNPT) reported that 620 children, aged 11 to 18, were exposed to violent extremism and radical ideologies online during the first eight months of 2026. The data, gathered in coordination with the police counterterrorism unit Densus 88, indicates that minors encountered extremist content through YouTube, podcasts, online forums, and specialized virtual communities.

BNPT Chief Eddy Hartono noted that the internet has become a primary medium for terrorist propaganda, recruitment, and financing. He specifically highlighted the ‘True Crime Community’—an online subculture where members analyze violent historical events—as a digital ecosystem that requires careful monitoring to prevent the normalization of violence.

In response, the BNPT has implemented targeted interventions for the identified minors through law enforcement and child welfare authorities. The agency is also collaborating with the Ministries of Education, Religious Affairs, and Social Affairs to expand early-intervention programs in schools. These initiatives aim to train educators and administrators to identify signs of radicalization and strengthen digital literacy to build resilience among youth.