FBI has uncovered a sinister online network called “764” that is coercing children into self-harm and extremist behavior, with at least 250 incidents under investigation nationwide.
Key Takeaways
- The “764” network spreads neo-Nazi and satanic ideology across social media and gaming platforms, targeting vulnerable children and teens.
- All 55 FBI field offices are investigating at least 250 incidents related to this group, which emerged around 2021.
- Predators manipulate minors into creating violent or sexual content, then use these materials for extortion.
- Parents must monitor children’s online activities, watching for secrecy, unusual behavior changes, and signs of self-harm.
- The Department of Justice has recently arrested two individuals linked to “764” as investigations continue.
A Growing Threat to America’s Children
A disturbing online extremist network dubbed “764” has emerged as a serious threat to children across America, according to recent FBI investigations. This decentralized group, which first appeared around 2021, has established a coordinated presence across popular platforms including Roblox, Discord, TikTok, Snapchat, Instagram, and X. The network’s primary objective is to target minors through these platforms, grooming them to adopt extremist ideologies and participate in harmful behaviors ranging from creating offensive content to engaging in dangerous acts of self-harm, including setting themselves on fire.
“The 764 Group is a decentralized network of neo-Nazi, satanic ideology and is tied to a group called the Order of Nine Angels,” said Dr. Stephen Boyce.
The scale of this threat has prompted a nationwide response from law enforcement. All 55 FBI field offices are currently involved in investigating hundreds of incidents connected to the network. The FBI has confirmed they are looking into at least 250 cases tied to these violent online networks, highlighting the widespread nature of this danger to children across the country. Parents nationwide are being warned to remain vigilant about their children’s online activities and interactions.
Manipulation Tactics and Warning Signs
The predators within the “764” network employ sophisticated psychological manipulation tactics to lure and control their young victims. They often begin with “love bombing,” creating fake online relationships to establish trust and dependency. Once a connection is established, they gradually introduce extremist content and coerce minors into creating increasingly disturbing materials. What starts as seemingly innocent online friendships can quickly escalate into dangerous situations where children are blackmailed into producing violent or sexual content.
“The underlying core tenet is their desire to degrade or destroy our society through the exploitation of minors and/or other at-risk individuals,” said Ryan Presley.
Parents should be alert to several warning signs that their child might be involved with this network. These include unusual secrecy around online activities, sudden romantic interests with people they’ve never met, changes in vocabulary or meme usage, and most alarmingly, unexplained injuries or signs of self-harm. The group encourages self-mutilation as a rite of passage, with members instructing children to document these acts. Some victims have been manipulated into extreme self-harm, including setting themselves on fire at the direction of these online predators.
Law Enforcement Response and Parental Action
The FBI has reported a significant increase in cases related to the “764” network since 2022, highlighting the growing influence of this threat. In response, federal authorities are intensifying their efforts to combat this network, with the Department of Justice recently announcing arrests of two individuals connected to “764” activities. However, law enforcement officials emphasize that parental involvement is crucial in protecting children from these online dangers, as the network continuously evolves its tactics to evade detection.
“The FBI is investigating at least 250 subjects who are tied to violent online networks commonly referred to as ‘764’ but includes many offshoot networks and names,” stated the FBI.
Experts advise parents to maintain open communication with their children about online safety, implementing comprehensive household rules regarding internet usage. Simply installing parental controls or setting screen time limits is insufficient. Parents must actively engage in conversations about online dangers, monitor their children’s digital activities, and create an environment where children feel comfortable reporting suspicious interactions. When warning signs are detected, parents should respond with care rather than panic, focusing on supporting their child while gathering information about potential threats.
“Absolutely is one of the more disturbing trends that I’ve seen in my FBI career in part because we are dealing with our most vulnerable of populations,” said Ryan Presley.
President Trump’s administration has consistently prioritized protecting American children from online predators and extremist influences. As the “764” network continues to pose a significant threat to our nation’s youth, parents must remain vigilant and proactive in safeguarding their children from these dangerous influences that seek to undermine our values and harm the most vulnerable members of our society. The FBI urges community members to report any signs of victimization immediately to help combat this growing threat.
