Quantum Computing Generative AI & LLMs Drones 6G Networks Satellite Comms Group Messaging Platforms Crypto- currency IoT Devices Metaverse 5G Networks Social Media Incitement 4 Group messaging platforms Group messaging platforms, originally conceived to enable one-to-one interactions and group chats, today have in many cases evolved into full-fledged communities and are competing with traditional social media platforms as the primary space where users socialize, communicate and consume news. Telegram and Discord have soared in popularity, while other popular messaging apps have followed suit by launching community features, such as WhatsApp communities and Viber groups. Criminals and extremists are moving away from traditional social media platforms, such as Facebook and X, and they are also shifting away from Dark Web marketplaces and forums. Bad actors are migrating to group messaging apps, especially Telegram, Discord and Signal, which are attractive to criminals for their focus on privacy and security, as well as perceived anonymity. DIGITAL AGE After the outbreak of war in Ukraine, several significant Dark Web marketplaces and forums were shut down through intensive law enforcement operations by Western European and US agencies. As a result, cyber-criminals, threat actors and ransomware groups were looking for a new online arena to exchange information, trade stolen data, share attack tools, exchange target lists, and discuss vulnerabilities. Many messaging apps have seen a huge influx of criminals, with rapidly multiplying numbers of channels and accounts dedicated to cyber-crime, financial fraud, hacktivism, migrant smuggling, drug trafficking and terrorism. It is easier for bad actors to hide their identity on Telegram and Discord, because fewer identifying details are required to use the service. Another advantage for bad actors is that less technical proficiency is needed to make purchases and open new channels related to illicit activities, compared to Tor sites on the Dark Web. Impact: 800M 150M Telegram monthly users worldwide 1 Discord monthly active users worldwide 2 Responsible AI Human-Machine Collaboration Video Analytics Group Messaging Platforms