The FBI is investigating a sophisticated criminal network targeting kids and teens online known as “764.”
Predators are notorious for identifying minors on social media platforms and using manipulation tactics to make them record themselves performing violent or sexual acts. These recordings are then leveraged to blackmail the minors into producing more violent or sexual material, which is subsequently distributed to “764” followers online.
“The FBI is currently investigating at least 250 individuals linked to violent online groups often referred to as ‘764,’ which also includes several related networks and aliases,” the FBI provided in a statement to Fox News on Tuesday evening. “Every one of the 55 FBI field offices nationwide is engaged in these investigations.”
The agency further stated that it is “increasingly alarmed by a loose group of violent predators who connect with minors and other at-risk individuals via popular online platforms and then pressure them into more severe sexual and violent actions — compelling victims to produce graphic content, child sexual abuse material (CSAM), harm family pets, injure themselves with sharp objects, or consider suicide.”
The two defendants allegedly operated a subgroup of 764, called 764 Inferno, through encrypted messaging platforms. They are accused of coercing or participating in the production of CSAM and facilitating the grooming ane extortion of minors.
They also allegedly ordered victims to self-harm, such as cutting “blood signs” into their skin, and engaged them in psychological torment and extreme violence using threat and manipulation tactics.
They are accused of targeting at least eight children as young as 13 years old.
The defendants face the maximum penalty of life in prison if they are convicted, according to the Justice Department.
Fox News’ Jennifer Johnson contributed to this report.
