FBI Boston Warns of Violent Extremists Targeting Children

Agents investigating over 350 subjects tied to disturbing online networks exploiting vulnerable youth

Published on Feb. 27, 2026

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The FBI's Boston Division is warning parents and caregivers about a sharp increase in violent online networks targeting and exploiting children and other vulnerable individuals. Agents are investigating over 350 subjects across the country tied to these networks, which coerce minors into producing harmful and sexually explicit content.

Why it matters

This disturbing trend highlights the growing threat of online predators and the need for increased vigilance and education to protect vulnerable youth from exploitation and abuse. The FBI is sounding the alarm to prevent more children from becoming victims of these ruthless tactics.

The details

According to the FBI, these violent online networks, commonly referred to as '764,' befriend minors and other vulnerable individuals through popular online platforms. They then coerce the victims into escalating sexual and violent behavior, pushing them to create graphic content and child sexual abuse material, harm family pets, or attempt suicide. Some predators even watch and circulate live-streamed self-harm and other violent content to continue extorting their victims.

  • The FBI's Boston Division, which includes Rhode Island, is currently investigating over 350 subjects tied to these violent online networks.

The players

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. We're sounding the alarm on this extremely disturbing trend in hopes of preventing more children from becoming victims. By recognizing the warning signs, you can help protect your child from harm and help us stop a predator from hurting another child.”

— Ted E. Docks, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI's Boston Division (FBI Media Release)

What’s next

The FBI is urging parents, guardians, and caregivers to be vigilant and to report any suspicious online activity or signs of exploitation to the authorities immediately.

The takeaway

This case highlights the growing threat of online predators targeting vulnerable children and the critical need for increased education, awareness, and cooperation between law enforcement and the public to protect our youth from these ruthless and depraved tactics.