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EU Unveils Bold Anti-Terrorism Strategy to Tackle Digital and Hybrid Threats

From encrypted messaging to 3D-printed weapons, the EU's latest strategy takes aim at modern terrorism. Will stricter laws and tech partnerships be enough to stay ahead?

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1 min read
The image shows a cartoon of a man in a police uniform holding a sign that reads "I suspect our AI...
The image shows a cartoon of a man in a police uniform holding a sign that reads "I suspect our AI is plotting something against us" while two robots stand in front of him, one of them holding a paper with text on it. In the background, there is a wall with a screen and buttons.

EU Unveils Bold Anti-Terrorism Strategy to Tackle Digital and Hybrid Threats

The European Commission has unveiled a new anti-terrorism strategy under the ProtectEU initiative. While large-scale attacks have decreased, officials warn that threats remain high, with lone actors and small cells posing the biggest risks.

The plan focuses heavily on online dangers, including encrypted communications, cryptocurrencies, and emerging technologies like AI and 3D printing. The strategy builds on existing laws such as the Digital Services Act (DSA) and the Terrorist Content Online Regulation (TCO). The Commission may revise the TCO later this year, following an upcoming evaluation. Stricter enforcement of the DSA is also a priority.

Europol will create a database of file hashes to block suspected illegal uploads. Cooperation with the Global Internet Forum to Counter Terrorism (GIFCT) will continue, aiming to tackle extremist content. The EU Internet Forum will further engage tech companies to remove terrorist material and combat issues like child exploitation and drug trafficking.

Travel regulations will tighten, with stronger partnerships with trusted third countries and expanded surveillance beyond traditional transit methods. The Commission also highlighted risks from encrypted messaging, NFTs, and generative AI tools being exploited for radicalisation.

Beyond digital threats, the strategy addresses hybrid attacks by state actors, including Russia, as well as extremist ideologies targeting minorities and democratic institutions. Accessible technologies like 3D-printed weapons and drones were flagged as growing concerns. The new measures aim to counter evolving threats while reinforcing existing legal frameworks. Online platforms, travel security, and emerging technologies will face stricter oversight. The Commission’s approach reflects a shift toward preemptive action against both digital and physical risks.

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