RCMP Plans to Go Undercover Online to Combat Violent Extremism

The RCMP has unveiled a new strategy to tackle violent extremism in Canada by conducting undercover online surveillance using fake identities. An internal document, obtained through access to information laws, outlines the Mounties' plans to use covert profiles to investigate and counter threats from ideologically motivated violent extremists (IMVE). Experts say this strategy is long overdue as online extremism increasingly threatens to spill into real-world violence.

IMVE encompasses a range of extremist ideologies, including white supremacist and far-left organizations. The RCMP’s document highlights the need for proactive undercover techniques to keep up with growing national security demands, citing a lack of covert online presence as a gap in current operations.

However, civil liberties advocates raise concerns that undercover online tactics could infringe on Canadians' rights. Privacy issues have previously emerged from the RCMP's online activities, prompting calls for clearer rules to safeguard civil liberties.

The RCMP defended its undercover approach, stating that each operation is subject to extensive planning, monitoring, and judicial processes where necessary. Allies often provide limited intelligence, described in the document as “just a crumb,” underscoring the need for more robust in-house intelligence capabilities.

The report also suggests a shift away from traditional terrorism charges, recommending alternative approaches such as mental health interventions, immigration proceedings, and public safety measures.

Experts on violent extremism worry that the upcoming U.S. election could influence extremist activity in Canada, noting past correlations with political shifts south of the border. Barbara Perry, director of Ontario Tech University's Centre on Hate, Bias and Extremism, described an "atomization" of the movement, with individuals adopting extremist views without affiliating with specific groups, making them harder to monitor.

Tim McSorley of the International Civil Liberties Monitoring Group acknowledged the importance of addressing violent extremism but cautioned that civil liberties must remain a priority.