A new report from the Canadian Security Intelligence Service has revealed a troubling shift in Canada’s national security landscape: more young people, including teenagers as young as 13, are becoming involved in extremist activities and counter-terrorism investigations.
The findings, part of the agency’s 2025 year-end report, point to a growing and complex challenge. Nearly one in every 10 investigations handled by the Canadian Security Intelligence Service now includes at least one minor. This marks a significant change in the profile of individuals being monitored and raises serious concerns about how radicalization is reaching younger audiences.
A Growing Concern Across Canada
According to the Canadian Security Intelligence Service, the presence of minors in national security cases is no longer rare. The agency stated clearly that its investigations “regularly encounter minors mobilizing to violence,” signaling that youth involvement is not isolated but part of a broader pattern.
Former intelligence officer Neil Bisson described the trend as both expected and deeply concerning. He emphasized that while it may not be surprising given today’s digital environment, the scale and speed of youth radicalization should not be underestimated.
Young people today are more connected than ever before, and that connectivity is being exploited. Through constant exposure to online content, youth are encountering extremist ideologies earlier and more frequently than previous generations.
The Role of the Internet and Digital Platforms
One of the key drivers identified by the Canadian Security Intelligence Service is the role of the internet. Social media platforms, encrypted messaging apps, and even online gaming communities have become spaces where extremist groups can reach and influence young minds.
These platforms allow direct communication, often without strong oversight. Vulnerable teenagers, who may already be searching for identity or belonging, can be drawn into harmful narratives through repeated exposure to violent or extremist content.
Cybersecurity expert Ritesh Kotak highlighted how these digital spaces are being used. He explained that platforms where youth spend most of their time are also the same places where bad actors can operate with relative ease. This creates a difficult environment for both parents and authorities trying to protect young users.
Understanding Radicalization Among Youth
The Canadian Security Intelligence Service report places particular emphasis on ideologically motivated violent extremism and religiously motivated violent extremism, often referred to as RMVE. These forms of extremism are especially concerning because they can be spread through videos, forums, and private groups that are easily accessible online.
One of the biggest challenges, according to the report, is identifying which young individuals pose a real threat. Many teens may come across or even engage with extremist content out of curiosity, without any intent to act on it. However, distinguishing between passive exposure and active radicalization is extremely difficult.
This uncertainty complicates the work of the Canadian Security Intelligence Service, as authorities must balance prevention with the rights and freedoms of young people.
Arrest Data Highlights the Trend
The report also provides concrete data that underscores the issue. In recent years, several minors have been arrested in connection with terrorism-related activities:
- Five minors in 2023
- Two minors in 2024
- Four minors in 2025
While these numbers may seem small, they represent a significant shift in national security trends. Each case involves serious concerns about how young individuals are being influenced and what actions they may take.
Calls for Stronger Regulation and Platform Responsibility
Experts agree that more needs to be done to address this growing problem. While law enforcement and intelligence agencies like the Canadian Security Intelligence Service continue their work, there is increasing pressure on technology companies to take greater responsibility.
Ritesh Kotak suggested that stricter regulations could force platforms to improve safety measures. At the same time, he argued that companies should not wait for legislation and must act proactively to protect younger users.
Improved content moderation, stronger age verification, and better reporting systems are often cited as necessary steps. However, implementing these changes across global platforms remains a complex challenge.
A National Security Issue with Long-Term Impact
The rise in youth radicalization is not just a short-term concern. It represents a long-term national security issue that could shape Canada’s future. The Canadian Security Intelligence Service has made it clear that early intervention, education, and awareness are critical in preventing further escalation.
Parents, educators, and communities also play an important role. Understanding how young people interact with online content and maintaining open communication can help reduce vulnerability to harmful influences.
The latest findings from the Canadian Security Intelligence Service highlight a reality that cannot be ignored. As technology continues to evolve, so do the methods used by extremist groups. The increasing involvement of minors in serious security investigations is a warning sign that action is needed at multiple levels.
Addressing this issue will require cooperation between government agencies, technology companies, and society as a whole. Without a coordinated effort, the risks outlined in this report could continue to grow, affecting not only national security but the safety and future of young people across Canada.
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