FBI Boston Warns of Surge in Violent Extremists Targeting Kids in New England

Investigators say the networks focus on befriending minors online before coercing them into escalating sexual and violent behavior.

Published on Feb. 25, 2026

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The FBI's Boston Division is warning parents and caregivers about a sharp rise in activity tied to violent online networks that target and exploit children and vulnerable people across the United States, including throughout New England. Federal authorities say more than 350 subjects nationwide are under investigation for their connection to these networks, commonly referred to as '764,' along with numerous offshoot groups.

Why it matters

This case highlights the growing threat of online predators who use sophisticated tactics to groom and exploit vulnerable children, raising concerns about child safety in the digital age. The FBI's warning underscores the need for increased vigilance and collaboration between law enforcement, schools, and communities to protect young people from these predatory networks.

The details

Investigators say the networks focus on befriending minors on popular online platforms before coercing them into escalating sexual and violent behavior. Victims have been pushed to create graphic content and child sexual abuse material, harm siblings, injure family pets, engage in self‑inflicted cutting, or, in some cases, attempt suicide. Predators have also watched and circulated live‑streamed self‑harm to further manipulate victims. The FBI says some offenders tied to these networks rely on intimidation tactics such as doxing and swatting to force victims into increasingly degrading and dangerous acts.

  • The FBI's Boston Division issued the warning on February 19, 2026.

The players

FBI Boston Division

The FBI's Boston field office, which covers Massachusetts, Maine, New Hampshire, and Rhode Island.

Ted E. Docks

Special Agent in Charge of the FBI's Boston Division.

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What they’re saying

“Simply put, what these juvenile predators are doing is depraved, and the tactics they're using are ruthless. They're pressuring at-risk youth and other vulnerable individuals into producing sexually explicit and harmful material to extort them. It's sickening, really.”

— Ted E. Docks, Special Agent in Charge, FBI Boston Division (Boston 25 News)

What’s next

The FBI Boston Division is using resources from both its counterterrorism and crimes against children units to track offenders and identify victims. The division is also working with school resource officers, educators, and community partners to help them recognize warning signs and assist in building cases.

The takeaway

This case highlights the urgent need for parents, guardians, and caregivers to be vigilant about their children's online activities and to educate themselves on the warning signs of online exploitation. Collaboration between law enforcement, schools, and communities is crucial to protect vulnerable youth from these predatory networks.