Violent Online Networks Target the Underaged in the US and Across the Globe

The FBI has issued a serious alert over a sharp rise in activity by a network known as “764,” among other violent online groups operating in the U.S. and globally. These networks systematically prey on minors and other vulnerable people. They use threats, manipulation, and blackmail to force victims into producing, sharing, or live‑streaming content involving self‑harm, animal cruelty, sexual acts, or even suicide. Once the content exists, it is circulated among the network to maintain control over the victims.

These groups don’t always have the same motivation; while some seek to cause fear or chaos, others may do it for sexual gratification, peer recognition, ideology, or a mixture of reasons.

They operate on publicly accessible platforms—social media, gaming platforms, and apps that young people commonly use. Much of their targeting is toward females under age 18, but anyone can become a victim. The FBI has identified some victims as young as nine years old. Vulnerabilities such as mental health issues (e.g., depression, suicidal thoughts, eating disorders) are often exploited. Grooming typically starts with building trust—sometimes romantic in tone—then escalates to manipulation, coercion, and isolating the victim. 

The methods of coercion include threats like doxxing (publishing personal information), “swatting” (making false reports to provoke a police response), and other intimidation. Victims are forced to create sexually explicit or violent content, self‑harm, or worse. Some are threatened that if they don’t comply, the material will be shared with family, friends, or the public. In some extreme cases, the networks push victims toward live‑streaming suicide. 

To counter the threat, the FBI recommends being very careful with what photos, videos, or personal information young people share online, and being alert to warning signs. Some of the red flags include sudden changes in behavior (withdrawal, mood swings), changes in appearance, self‑harm marks, reluctance to speak about what’s going on, or fear around a new online “friend.” Talking openly with young people about online safety, monitoring their online contacts, and reporting suspicious behavior to law enforcement are key preventive steps.

Source: FBI Bulletin