Law enforcement agencies from 19 countries, with support from Europol, have arrested 25 individuals in a major operation targeting AI-generated child sexual abuse material (CSAM). The suspects were involved in a criminal network that distributed entirely AI-created images of minors.
The coordinated raids, carried out on 26 February 2025 under “Operation Cumberland,” were led by Danish authorities. Investigators expect further arrests in the coming weeks as the operation continues.
Authorities have identified 273 suspects, arrested 25 individuals, searched 33 properties, and seized 173 pieces of evidence. The primary suspect, a Danish national arrested in November 2024, operated an online platform where he distributed AI-generated CSAM. Users could gain access to this material by making a small online payment. The case highlights the increasing misuse of AI in cybercrime.
Europol and the Joint Cybercrime Action Taskforce (J-CAT) coordinated efforts between various national law enforcement agencies. Experts from Europol’s European Cybercrime Centre provided intelligence, operational support, and facilitated cross-border collaboration.
This case marks one of the first large-scale crackdowns on AI-generated child abuse content. The lack of clear legal frameworks in many countries makes it difficult to prosecute offenders. To address this, EU Member States are discussing new regulations proposed by the European Commission to combat AI-generated CSAM and protect children from online exploitation.
Europol’s Executive Director, Catherine De Bolle, emphasized the growing danger posed by AI-generated abuse material. “These artificial images can be created easily by criminals with minimal technical skills. This increases the volume of CSAM online, making it harder to track offenders and identify victims. Law enforcement must develop advanced tools to tackle this evolving threat.”
Online child exploitation remains a top cybercrime threat in the EU. AI-powered tools are increasingly being used to create and manipulate explicit content. Even in cases where no real victim exists, AI-generated CSAM contributes to the normalization of child exploitation, making prevention and law enforcement intervention crucial.
Europol has been actively fighting child sexual abuse since 2017 through initiatives like “Stop Child Abuse – Trace An Object,” which allows the public to submit tips to help investigators. So far, nearly 28,000 tips have been received, leading to the identification and rescue of 30 children and the prosecution of six offenders. Additionally, Europol operates a Victim Identification Taskforce, helping global law enforcement identify and rescue victims. Children in Germany and Australia have already been saved through this initiative.
Beyond arrests, Operation Cumberland also focuses on prevention. Europol and its partners plan to launch an online campaign aimed at deterring potential offenders by raising awareness about the consequences of AI-driven child exploitation. Strategies include targeted online messages, social media warnings, and direct outreach to individuals involved in illegal activities.
Authorities from multiple countries contributed to Operation Cumberland, including law enforcement agencies from Australia, Austria, Belgium, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, the Netherlands, New Zealand, Norway, Poland, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, the UK, and the US. Operation Cumberland represents a global effort to crack down on AI-generated CSAM and prevent future crimes. By leveraging international cooperation, advanced technology, and public awareness campaigns, law enforcement agencies aim to create a safer digital space for children.
Global Crackdown on AI-Generated Child Abuse Material Leads to 25 Arrests
