
AI-Powered Detection and Analysis of Online Radicalization

CounteR at a Glance
The key capabilities of CounteR and ASSIST Software's role in platform development.

Deep Reinforcement Learning supports the discovery of relevant online content and additional sources for further analysis.
Context
CounteR is a European research and innovation project focused on detecting and analyzing online radicalization through AI-assisted content discovery and advanced analytical technologies.
The project brings together expertise in artificial intelligence, data engineering, cybersecurity, and privacy protection to support law enforcement agencies and online platforms.
ASSIST Software coordinated the consortium and led platform architecture, integration, and development, contributing to AI model training, data processing, and secure deployment infrastructure.
Countries:
Detecting online radicalisation signals across fragmented data sources while protecting privacy.
AI-powered platform for content discovery, multimodal analysis, and secure data processing.
Supporting law enforcement investigations and online content moderation workflows.
May 2021 – April 2024
Total project budget
EU funding programme
Partners






















The Challenge
Online radicalization can develop across social media, forums, websites, and other digital environments, making relevant content and connections difficult to identify and analyze.
The volume of online information, multiple languages, and different content formats complicate analysis. At the same time, collecting and processing sensitive data requires strong privacy safeguards and controlled access.
For law enforcement agencies and online platforms, the challenge is to connect fragmented information, identify potential radicalization signals, and support informed human assessment while protecting individual privacy.
The Goal
To support the early detection and analysis of online radicalization through integrated AI technologies, privacy-conscious data processing, and human oversight.
Solution Overview
CounteR provides a unified environment for investigating online radicalization, bringing together relevant content, analytical findings, and connections among online entities on a single platform.
Law enforcement analysts can search and filter information, examine visualizations, investigate online communities, and review potential radicalization signals through a centralized dashboard.
For internet service providers and online platforms, a dedicated API enables content scoring within existing moderation workflows, supporting the identification and handling of flagged material.

Objectives:
CounteR Analytical Workflow
The Cyber Digital Twin follows a clear process that turns real infrastructure into a safe environment for cybersecurity assessment.

Discover & Collect
Deep Reinforcement Learning identifies additional relevant sources, while data collectors retrieve content from supported online environments.
Process & Protect
Collected data is ingested, pseudonymized, and prepared for analysis through standardized processing pipelines.
Analyze & Correlate
AI modules analyze text, images, and network connections, combining findings to identify potentially relevant patterns.
Review & Investigate
Analysts examine consolidated findings through the dashboard, explore connections, and assess potential radicalization signals.
A Smarter Approach to Radicalization Analysis
CounteR combines complementary AI technologies and privacy-conscious data management in one platform, enabling richer analysis while maintaining human oversight.

Connects specialized research components through a shared architecture, enabling coordinated analysis.
Applies data protection measures within processing workflows rather than treating privacy as an additional layer.
Places individual classifications within a broader analytical context to support informed interpretation.
Accommodates different security policies and infrastructure requirements through cloud and on-premises deployment.

Project Results & Outcomes
CounteR successfully completed its development and end-user validation activities in April 2024.
The consortium delivered an integrated, AI-powered platform that combines specialist research components within a secure environment. ASSIST Software coordinated technical integration, deployment, and infrastructure operations throughout the end-user pilots.
The project achieved three key outcomes:
Advancing Research in AI-Powered Online Safety
The CounteR consortium contributed to research on privacy-preserving AI, multilingual content analysis, and social network intelligence. These efforts produced datasets and analytical approaches supporting further research into online radicalization and digital safety.
Three research contributions:
Privacy-Preserving Classification
The Cloaked Classifiers dataset explores pseudonymization techniques for classification tasks involving sensitive information.
Multilingual Content Detection
Research into multilingual hate-speech detection supports the analysis of harmful content across different languages.
Social Network Risk Analysis
The HURI approach investigates risk-related patterns within online networks to support contextual analysis.
ASSIST as Project Coordinator
ASSIST Software coordinated the CounteR consortium and served as the main platform integrator and AI engineering partner.
Our team designed the system architecture and developed the back-end microservices, analyst dashboard, identity and access management, and API gateway. We also contributed to Deep Reinforcement Learning model training, data collection, and pseudonymization workflows.
ASSIST integrated partner-developed analytical components, implemented Kubernetes-based deployments, established CI/CD pipelines, and managed the cloud infrastructure used during end-user pilots.

AI Engineering & Data Processing
Support for reinforcement learning model training, data collectors, and the development of data ingestion, processing, and pseudonymization workflows.
Platform Architecture & Development
Development of back-end microservices, the analyst dashboard, access controls, and APIs enabling seamless integration of the platform's analytical components.
Integration, Deployment & Coordination
Consortium coordination, technical integration, Kubernetes-based deployments, CI/CD pipelines, and infrastructure operations during end-user pilots.
Who CounteR Supports
CounteR supports organizations investigating online radicalization, assessing harmful content, and improving online safety through informed analysis and decision-making.
Analysts can investigate potential radicalization signals, explore online communities, and review connected findings to support informed assessments.
From Design to Completion, we ensure Outstanding Products
Scalable, secure and streamlined solutions for your business success
For business inquiries:
hello@assist.ro
Our address:
1 Tipografiei Street 720043, Suceava, Romania
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can you integrate AI into an existing software product?
Absolutely. Our team can assess your current system and recommend how artificial intelligence features, such as automation, recommendation engines, or predictive analytics, can be integrated effectively. Whether it's enhancing user experience or streamlining operations, we ensure AI is added where it delivers real value without disrupting your core functionality.
2. What types of AI projects has ASSIST Software delivered?
We’ve developed AI solutions across industries, from natural language processing in customer support platforms to computer vision in manufacturing and agriculture. Our expertise spans recommendation systems, intelligent automation, predictive analytics, and custom machine learning models tailored to specific business needs.
3. What is ASSIST Software's development process?
The Software Development Life Cycle (SDLC) we employ defines the stages for a software project. Our SDLC phases include planning, requirement gathering, product design, development, testing, deployment, and maintenance.
4. What software development methodology does ASSIST Software use?
ASSIST Software primarily leverages Agile principles for flexibility and adaptability. This means we break down projects into smaller, manageable sprints, allowing continuous feedback and iteration throughout the development cycle. We also incorporate elements from other methodologies to increase efficiency as needed. For example, we use Scrum for project roles and collaboration, and Kanban boards to see workflow and manage tasks. As per the Waterfall approach, we emphasize precise planning and documentation during the initial stages.
5. I'm considering a custom application. Should I focus on a desktop, mobile or web app?
We can offer software consultancy services to determine the type of software you need based on your specific requirements. Please explore what type of app development would suit your custom build product.
- A web application runs on a web browser and is accessible from any device with an internet connection. (e.g., online store, social media platform)
- Mobile app developers design applications mainly for smartphones and tablets, such as games and productivity tools. However, they can be extended to other devices, such as smartwatches.
- Desktop applications are installed directly on a computer (e.g., photo editing software, word processors).
- Enterprise software manages complex business functions within an organization (e.g., Customer Relationship Management (CRM), Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP)).
6. My software product is complex. Are you familiar with the Scaled Agile methodology?
We have been in the software engineering industry for 30 years. During this time, we have worked on bespoke software that needed creative thinking, innovation, and customized solutions.
Scaled Agile refers to frameworks and practices that help large organizations adopt Agile methodologies. Traditional Agile is designed for small, self-organizing teams. Scaled Agile addresses the challenges of implementing Agile across multiple teams working on complex projects.
SAFe provides a structured approach for aligning teams, coordinating work, and delivering value at scale. It focuses on collaboration, communication, and continuous delivery for optimal custom software development services.
7. How do I choose the best collaboration model with ASSIST Software?
We offer flexible models. Think about your project and see which model would be right for you.
- Dedicated Team: Ideal for complex, long-term projects requiring high continuity and collaboration.
- Team Augmentation: Perfect for short-term projects or existing teams needing additional expertise.
- Project-Based Model: Best for well-defined projects with clear deliverables and a fixed budget.
Contact us to discuss the advantages and disadvantages of each model.
1. Is ASSIST Software a reliable company for custom engineering?
Absolutely. Our partners have given us great recommendations and reviews, leading us to win The Manifest Award for Most Reviewed Software Developers. Further proof comes from our 97% employee retention rate and ongoing client partnerships for over 8 years.
2. Are the ASSIST Software Romanian software engineers certified?
Yes. 85% of our software programmers are certified.
At a company level, ASSIST Software is certified and recognized by industry players such as Microsoft, AWS, Google Cloud, Adobe, Drupal, Fujitsu, ISTQB, and others.
Our employee certifications are tremendously important as they reflect the shared commitment to long-term growth.
3. Why should I choose Romania for custom software development?
Romania has become a significant player in custom software development, attracting businesses worldwide. Romania boasts the highest number of certified IT specialists in Europe and ranks sixth globally, surpassing even the US in tech specialists per capita.
At ASSIST Software, what sets us apart is our team and our location: our engineers are certified, experienced, and flexible, while being in the +2 GMT time zone allows us to easily facilitate meetings with clients all over the world.
4. What team will work on my project, and where will it be located?
ASSIST Software's headquarters is in Romania, a prime country for software development outsourcing. Our 350+ software engineers speak English and have a deep passion for innovation.
We provide regular project updates through reports, meetings, and online dashboards. Generally, you'll have access to a dedicated project manager who will be your point of contact for any questions or concerns.
5. How much will my project cost me?
Our prices are competitive, and as per our working model, we guarantee you will be satisfied with the result. Frequent meetings, check-ins, and a great communication structure will ensure this outcome.
Project costs depend on various factors, including complexity, scope, required technologies, and team size. We'll gather detailed information about your project during the initial consultation to provide a customized quote and we guarantee that you will be able to see the benefits of bespoke software.
1. What technologies do you work with?
ASSIST Software tackles your projects with a robust tech stack. We build native and cross-platform mobile apps, craft user-friendly web experiences, and create stunning visuals.
Our wide-ranging expertise starts from Java, Python, and JavaScript frameworks to cutting-edge solutions like AR/VR, blockchain, and AI/ML. We also manage databases, leverage cloud platforms, and ensure flawless project execution. We're your one-stop shop for exceptional software development from concept to deployment. You can view our expertise for more details.
2. Are you experienced in AI/ML development?
Yes. We have extensive experience in data engineering and machine learning operations (MLOps). We can employ neural networks, computer vision, and AI models to benefit your ideas.
You can trust our long-term experience with big data, NLP, and sentiment analysis, as over the past three years, we led a European security project with 15 partners focused on detecting radicalization on social media and the dark web.
3. Do you have a research and development department and work on European Projects?
We know R&D is crucial for businesses to stay competitive and thrive in dynamic markets. Successful R&D efforts lead to developing exceptional products or services, improved efficiency and effectiveness in operations, and enhanced market positioning.
We have established solid partnerships with 160+ European research companies, universities, and research centers (e.g., Fraunhofer, TWI, University of Heidelberg, REWE Group, SINTEF, etc.) and have participated as technical partners in over 25 EU-funded projects.
4. Besides custom software solutions, what other services do you offer?
Design Thinking for Breakthrough Products:
We craft user experiences that resonate. Our design process is an immersive collaboration, starting with workshops to uncover your vision and user needs. We conduct market research, analyze the competition, and guide you toward cutting-edge solutions in accordance with your business requirements.
Digital Transformation to Reimagine Your Business:
Digital transformation is nothing less than a strategic shift. We empower you to become more agile and data-driven, optimizing core processes for the digital age.
Scale with Confidence as We Build for Growth:
We understand that business success and development mean new challenges. Our solutions are built to scale seamlessly, accommodating increasing user bases and data volumes without sacrificing performance or security.
5. As a company, does ASSIST have its own software products?
Yes, ASSIST Software teams have been involved in designing and developing innovative products that address community needs. One such example is the web and mobile platform Autisma. This therapy assistant enables continued learning for children diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder.
Our extensive knowledge of the Unity and Unreal engines has allowed us to develop two mobile games, Elly and the Ruby Atlas and Hooman Invaders, as well as various Unity Assets, such as the Real-Time Weather PRO and Easy Sky. These two Unity assets allow Unity developers to control the weather and sky in their projects.
1. Is ASSIST Software hiring right now?
We are always looking for great people to join our team, whether you're a senior software engineer or a new talent seeking an IT career. Please check our careers page and contact us. Our HR department will contact you as soon as possible.
2. Is ASSIST Software organizing internships?
Yes. Each year, we organize individual and group internships for students. Our long-term partnership with the Stefan cel Mare University of Suceava allows us to put together great events for students and help them get started in the industry.
3. What type of learning culture does ASSIST Software encourage?
Our focus on innovation comes from a 'can do' attitude and the continuous learning we encourage our colleagues to pursue. We frequently organize workshops, learning sessions, presentations, and masterclasses. All these events are free and open to our colleagues and aim to support their professional and personal development.
4. How does ASSIST Software focus on teamwork?
The key to stellar teamwork is the quality time we spend together. ASSIST employees and their families are frequently invited to participate in all activities. We encourage a healthy lifestyle by promoting and organizing hikes, bike riding sessions, marathons, volleyball, football and tennis matches, ping-pong championships, and many more.
We show our care for the environment through reforestation campaigns and forest cleaning activities.
We also have an English-speaking club, e-sports gaming nights, tech discussions, networking parties, and board game sessions.
5. How does ASSIST Software give back to the community?
Volunteering and charity are essential to us, which is why we founded the ASSIST Humanitarian Foundation. We genuinely care about our community and want to improve the future. We invest in IT equipment for schools and award excellent teachers. We also help hospitals and fire departments enter the 21st century.
We sponsor cultural events and deliver humanitarian aid to those in need. If you agree with our views, you can also donate.















