Federal agents say the online network is pushing kids toward self-harm, violence, and sexual exploitation.
Department of Justice (DOJ) officials are attempting to crack down on an online predator network known as “764,” as online exploitation of vulnerable groups increases.
This group has proven to be dangerous for many minors and other victims online who are targeted and threatened through forums and gaming platforms. The FBI announced on Feb. 20 that they have prioritized these investigations.
The National Center for Missing and Exploited Children said the group is “producing some of the most sadistic online enticement reports we’ve ever seen.”
Here’s what we know about the “764” network and the government’s crackdown.
What The Network Does
In March of this year, the FBI warned of a “sharp increase” in activity from “764” and similar networks.
According to the bureau, the networks “methodically target and exploit minors” and others. The groups use threats, blackmail, and other forms of manipulation to coerce or extort victims.
The primary mode of leverage is to force the individual to produce and share acts of self-harm, animal cruelty, sexual explicit acts, and even suicide. The footage can then be circulated among members of the network, which allows for continued extortion and control of victims.
The group has been known to prey on victims as young as 9 years old.
The DOJ refers to “764” as “a network of nihilistic violent extremists who engage in criminal conduct in the United States and abroad, seeking to destroy civilized society through the corruption and exploitation of vulnerable populations.”
The mother of a child exploited by a “764” group member told the National Center on Missing and Exploited Children that the individual pushed her daughter to cut the member’s screen name into her arm with a razor blade.
The individual then told her she was a “good girl” and that they loved her. To the mother’s surprise, her daughter responded, “I love you too!”
“These guys are very scary,” the mother told the organization. “Just the power they have over my daughter is mind blowing. Please help!”
Families have also alleged that group members have threatened to harm the relatives of the individuals they target if the victims do not cooperate with the group’s demands.
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