FBI Warns of '764' Predators Exploiting Children Online

Violent networks target vulnerable youth across U.S. and New England, pressuring victims into self-harm and sexual abuse

Published on Feb. 26, 2026

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The FBI is investigating over 350 individuals nationwide tied to violent online networks dubbed '764' that target children and vulnerable people across the United States and New England. Victims are allegedly pressured into self-harm, sexual exploitation, and other degrading acts, the bureau's Boston division warned.

Why it matters

This case highlights the growing threat of online predators exploiting vulnerable youth, using tactics like extortion, doxing, and swatting to maintain control over victims. It underscores the need for increased awareness and prevention efforts to protect children from these disturbing crimes.

The details

The '764' networks operate across social media, gaming apps, and messaging services, with predators befriending minors and coercing them into producing child sexual abuse material, exploiting younger siblings, harming pets, and attempting suicide. The FBI classifies the primary motivation as Nihilistic Violent Extremism, though some act for sexual gratification or a sense of belonging.

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

The players

Ted E. Docks

Special agent in charge of the FBI's Boston Division.

National Center for Missing and Exploited Children

A nonprofit organization that offers a free service called Take It Down to assist minor victims in removing or halting the spread of sexually explicit images taken before age 18.

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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 of the FBI's Boston Division (The Washington Times)

What’s next

The FBI is coordinating with school resource officers and administrators to help identify at-risk children, and is urging parents to closely monitor their children's online activity and report any suspicious behavior.

The takeaway

This case underscores the critical need for increased vigilance and proactive measures to protect vulnerable youth from the growing threat of online predators exploiting children through extortion, self-harm, and sexual abuse. Raising awareness and empowering parents and communities is essential to combating this disturbing trend.